The smell of fresh-cut grass, the thud of shoulder pads, the squeak of sneakers on hardwood -- fall is officially here for the Madras High School White Buffaloes.
With the 2026-27 school year getting underway, MHS fall sports teams are heading into preseason workouts and early-season competition across four programs: football, volleyball, cross country, and soccer. For student-athletes, coaches, and the families who fill the bleachers at Charles Bishop Field and the Bruin Gymnasium, it's the most anticipated time of the school calendar.
Football
The White Buffaloes varsity football team opens its Oregon 4A schedule in the coming weeks, competing in a league that demands consistency and physicality on both sides of the ball. Fall camp has been underway, with coaching staff evaluating depth at several key positions. Jefferson County's football faithful are hoping to build on last season's lessons and push deeper into the OSAA playoffs. Watch for updated game schedules at osaa.org and on the MHS Athletics page.
Volleyball
Volleyball is one of MHS's most competitive programs, and expectations are high heading into the new season. The team will be tested early in non-league play before Oregon 4A Intermountain Conference matches begin in September. The Buffaloes are known for strong serving and back-row defense -- qualities that will be on full display as the season progresses.
Cross Country
Few sports capture the rugged terrain of Central Oregon better than cross country, and the Madras runners program draws from a deep pool of student-athletes who train year-round. Madras Runners, the local community running group, holds weekly 5:30 p.m. sessions at the MHS track -- a community connection that helps build the pipeline from recreational running to competitive racing.
Soccer
The MHS soccer program rounds out the fall slate, with both boys and girls squads competing in league play. Soccer has been growing in participation at MHS in recent years, reflecting broader trends in the region's youth sports culture.
Back to School
Fall sports mark the beginning of the school year for thousands of Jefferson County School District students. Parents are reminded that athletic registration for MHS is now handled through the Final Forms platform -- a digital system for physicals, emergency contacts, and waivers. Families who haven't completed registration should visit the MHS Athletics page at mhs.jcsd.k12.or.us for instructions.
The Bulletin will follow MHS sports throughout the season. Results, standings, and feature stories on local student-athletes are a core part of our coverage. Go Buffaloes!