Prep soccer, volleyball teams back in action

2A Greater St. Helens League teams play Tuesday

By Tim Martinez, Columbian Assistant Sports Editor

Published: February 15, 2021, 8:51pm

The Ridgefield volleyball team celebrates a win against Columbia River last season. The Spudders open their 2020-21 season at home Tuesday against Mark Morris. (Samuel Wilson for the Columbian)

The last time the Ridgefield volleyball team played a match, the Spudders hoisted the Class 2A state championship trophy.

That was Nov. 16, 2019 — 15 months ago.

But on Tuesday, the Spudders will be back together again as the Class 2A Greater St. Helens League opens play in volleyball and girls soccer. Ridgefield will host Mark Morris in volleyball.

The path to play was opened when the Southwest Region moved to Phase 2 of the Healthy Washington reopening plan on Sunday, allowing higher-risk sports like volleyball, football and soccer to be played.

Participants will be wearing masks and spectators will be significantly restricted, but at least they are playing again.

The Columbia River girls soccer team will be in a similar situation. The River girls, who won the 2A state title by beating league rival Hockinson on Nov. 23, 2019, will host Fort Vancouver on Tuesday night. Hockinson will open at Hudson’s Bay on Tuesday night.

The 1A Trico League will begin play Thursday in volleyball and girls soccer.

Both leagues will kick off their football schedules on Saturday.

Teams in the 4A/3A GSHL will open seasons in football, volleyball and girls soccer next week.