Bears Make History: Football & Field Hockey Reach New Heights

Riverbend High School's fall sports season featured major accomplishments across two programs, highlighted by successful regular seasons, postseason appearances, and growing team cultures.

Riverbend football put together one of its strongest seasons in years, finishing the regular season undefeated at 10-0. The Bears faced two of their biggest rivals, beating both Colonial Forge 41-27 and North Stafford 28-21.

Coach Thomas credited player development and commitment for the team's success.

"Our season has gone really well. Compared to last year, the team has really adjusted to Coach Webb's system, and it's showing on the field," he said.

Players continued improving off the field as well. More athletes trained with personal coaches, attended college camps, and prepared outside of school, which impacted the skill level of the team.

The Bears entered the playoffs as one of the top teams in Class 5 and advanced to the second round, where they fell in a one-point loss to Stone Bridge, 20-19.

Despite the tough loss, Thomas believes this season sets a new standard.

Riverbend Varsity Field Hockey finished with a 10-6 record in the regular season, but the team's biggest accomplishments came in the postseason. The Bears advanced through regionals, beating Riverside 2-0. They earned a spot in the state quarterfinals against Godwin, beating them 2-1. Unfortunately, they took a tough loss in the state semifinals.

Coach Williams praised both leadership and team chemistry. "We're incredibly fortunate to have a phenomenally talented and hardworking group of returners, along with youthful talent that meshed right in," Williams said.

She emphasized how the team balanced competitiveness with a supportive culture. "Our team culture strikes a balance between a fun, family like atmosphere and a competitive mindset. While I'm proud of our success this season, I'm even more proud of how this group represents the program and supports each other."

While both teams fell just short of state championship games, Riverbend's fall season showed major progression and strong leadership, proving that these programs will continue to grow. Between an undefeated regular season record, deep playoff runs, and a state semifinals appearance, this fall proved that the Bears worked harder than ever during preseason.