Summit football begins new chapter after 2025 runner-up finish

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- The Summit Storm football team is coming off a state runner-up finish in last year's 5A playoffs.

Summit finished the season with a 12-1 record, with its only loss coming in the state championship game against Silverton, 24-14.

The Storm graduated a talented senior class from last season, but they also return plenty of experience and talent as they look to make another deep playoff run in 2026.

Thursday's practice was an early opportunity for the team to get back on the field, with players wearing street clothes and cleats. Official practices will begin next week.

Summit will spend the next three weeks preparing for the regular season before opening the 2026 campaign on the road in Idaho.

As the Storm begin their preparations, players and coaches shared their thoughts on the upcoming season and what it will take to make another run at a state championship.

The Summit Storm will open the 2026 football season on the road, traveling to Idaho to take on Bishop Kelly High School on September 4.

Summit's first game in Central Oregon will come two weeks later, when the Storm face Mountain View on September 18.