The smell of freshly cut grass and the sound of shoulder pads colliding returned to Madras this week as Madras High School student-athletes kicked off the fall sports practice season. For the White Buffaloes football program and fall sports teams across Jefferson County School District 509J, August marks the start of a new chapter after months of off-season preparation.
Football Looks to Rebound
The Madras White Buffaloes enter the 2026 season with motivation to improve on a 2025 campaign that ended without a playoff berth. Early practices this week have coaches assessing depth charts and putting young talent through its paces in the August heat.
The White Buffaloes compete in the Oregon 4A classification, one of the most competitive levels of high school football in the state. The Central Oregon landscape includes rival programs that have regularly tested Madras in recent seasons, and coaches are expected to use the preseason to sharpen both the offensive and defensive lines ahead of opening week.
The Jefferson County School District calendar shows the 2026-27 academic year beginning in early September, with the OSAA-regulated game schedule to follow shortly after. Families can find the complete fall schedule at jcsd.k12.or.us once rosters and game dates are finalized.
Other Fall Sports in Action
Football is not the only White Buffaloes program ramping up. Cross country runners are logging early-morning miles along Madras roads and trails, building a base for the fall racing season. Volleyball players are working through serve-and-pass drills in the gymnasium, with the team eyeing a competitive run in league play.
All fall sport athletes must have a current physical on file with the athletic department and complete all Oregon School Activities Association eligibility requirements before participating in games. Families who have questions about registration, physicals, or activity fees should contact the MHS athletic office at (541) 475-7265.
Back-to-School Dates
With fall sports now underway, the school year is just weeks away. The Jefferson County School District 509J has posted both the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic calendars on its website. The start of school signals a busy transition period for families across Madras, Culver, Metolius, and the broader district.
The Madras Bulletin will be following the White Buffaloes and all Jefferson County prep sports throughout the fall season. Coaches and athletic directors are encouraged to share scores, results, and player milestones at news@madrasbulletin.com.