Practice has intensified for Riverbank High School athletes as competition is on the horizon for many of the teams. Both girls volleyball and football teams take to the court and field, respectively, this Saturday.

Lady Bruin Netters

Varsity volleyball players hit the court on Saturday, Aug. 24, in the Orestimba Tournament, at Newman High School, beginning at 8 a.m.

As for the rest of the starting schedule, the Foundation Game, a fundraiser held by teams across the league, will be against Johansen High in Modesto for Riverbank this year. It’s scheduled for Monday, Aug. 26, at 7 p.m.

Riverbank girls won’t play at home until Sept. 4, hosting Ceres in non-league play. Their first Trans-Valley League action will be Monday, Sept. 9, hosting Modesto Christian High School.

In team news, Riverbank is fielding three volleyball teams this season. With the addition of a freshman team, start times on game days will move up to 4 p.m. when the Lady Bruins are facing other schools that have a frosh team.

Bruins Football

Early practices for Riverbank football players have not been easy, due to the late summer heat experienced around the region.

Nonetheless, game play is scheduled to start on Saturday evening, Aug. 24 at Big Valley Christian High School in Modesto.

The Bruins will first play at home next week, Aug. 30, as they host the Delta Saints from Clarksburg.

Cross Country Bruins

Riverbank’s cross country runners, on the other hand, got to participate in Team Trials at Barton Ranch on Friday, Aug. 16. They are gearing up for the first TVL meet on Thursday, Sept. 9, at Tuolumne Park in Modesto.

Lady Bruin Golf

Girl linksters were to face their first competition on the road, traveling to play at Tracy Golf Club on Aug. 21.

The good news this year is that the Riverbank team is returning to the Escalon Golf Course for its home matches.

The Lady Bruin golf team’s first outing there will be next Tuesday, Aug. 27, hosting the Lady Yellowjackets of Hilmar. Tee time is at 4 p.m.