There's nothing like a home game at West Linn High School, according to football booster Club head Gary Haines.

And after over two years of delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain issues, the revamped high school stadium is nearly complete and ready for use starting this fall. In celebration, the football and cheerleading teams invite people out to a Community Day to kick off the season.

"The whole idea behind the community day was giving something people can look forward to, get them excited for the season on a positive (note) and reconnect our community after COVID," Haines said.

The day will feature activities and food for community members to enjoy. The teams' booster clubs host the event and, although the entry for the event is free, all proceeds from vendors and activities will go towards the cheerleading team.

"We've got food from hot dog vendors, cotton candy (and) games and activities like a dunk tank and face painting," said head cheer coach Shannon Maloney. "There will be something for everyone and every age."

There will also be performances and games to watch and participate in.

During the event, the freshman and varsity football teams will play scrimmages, with performances by the cheerleaders. There will also be a dodgeball game for community members to join.

"We just want people to come out and enjoy themselves," Haines said.

According to Haines and Maloney, the event is also a homecoming for the teams. The current senior class is the only group of students to step foot on the field. For the last year, the students have held their home games at Wilsonville High School. This has led to a disconnect between the groups' spirit and getting the community to rally around the teams.

Haines also said the Friday night home games spurs neighbors to catch up with each other and share excitement about the season.

"The real driving factor is to get people from different parts of the community together to come out and support the high school. We want to see people who may not have kids at the school or on the team to come out and enjoy themselves," Haines said. "The Community Day is giving them (an example) of Friday night games....— which really drive people together."

IF YOU GO:

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 20

Where: West Linn High School

Tickets: Free entry but recommended to bring cash for vendors and booths.