Welcome to Union Stadium in Mead, Washington, the site of the 35th edition of the “Battle of the Bell” between the hometown Mt. Spokane Wildcats and the visiting Mead Panthers. Dating back to 1998, this fierce rivalry has delivered thrilling moments year after year and will be featured as one of over 100 games in the 23rd season of the Great American Rivalry Series. 

Going into the 2026 season, this series is tied 17-17. Last season, The Wildcats won a tight battle 16-14 in comeback fashion lead by GARS MVP, Cade Strocsher and bringing home the coveted Victory Bell. 

The bell symbolizes more than just a win—it stands for tradition, grit, and community pride in one of Washington’s most spirited high school football rivalries. 

Circle October 9th, as 5,000 plus roaring fans pack the stands to witness another electric chapter. Who will take the lead?? 

We Know Friday Nights. 

MVP

Evan Drew
Mead

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Cade Strocsher

Mount Spokane

Cade is not only outstanding in athletics but he is even better in the classroom! Cade has lettered in 3 different sports; football, basketball and golf.  He has made the post-season in all 3 sports! In the classroom, Cade has taken multiple AP classes and Dual Enrollment classes and currently carries a perfect 4.0 GPA! Within the community Cade volunteers in multiple projects and is active within the Wildcat Student Body. Cade is still exploring his college options but would like to pursue engineering.
Evan Drew

Mead

Evan is a hard worker, who is very tough, and a true example of what it means to represent Mead. On the field, he is leader on both sides, while off the field he is a leader in the classroom where he boasts a 4.0 GPA. Evan is also a member of the basketball team and is a letter winner in both sports. After high school, Evan plans on pursuing basketball in college but is still exploring his school options.

GAME SUMMARY

The Mead Panthers delivered a dominant performance Friday night, defeating the Mount Spokane Wildcats 49–16 on October 9 in the annual Battle of the Bell rivalry matchup. Mead took control early, building a 21–0 halftime lead and using explosive plays on both sides of the ball to reclaim the Victory Bell. Senior quarterback Evan Drew led the Panthers’ offensive attack, completing 10 of 17 passes for 256 yards and five touchdowns. Wide receiver Kyle Killman was a standout target, recording four receptions for 130 yards and three touchdowns, while Jackson Harshman added two touchdown receptions. Mead established momentum from the opening drive, with Drew connecting with Harshman for an early score before finding Killman for two more touchdowns. The Panthers’ defense also played a key role, forcing turnovers and making timely stops to keep Mount Spokane off the scoreboard in the first half. The Wildcats responded in the third quarter when quarterback Cruz Bradeen connected with Draven Butler for a 57-yard touchdown, but Mead answered immediately with an 80-yard trick-play touchdown pass from Lee Colomb to Killman. The Panthers continued to capitalize on big-play opportunities as Drew connected with Colomb for an 85-yard touchdown before finding Harshman for another long scoring reception. Drew later added a 31-yard rushing touchdown as Mead continued to build its lead and secure the 49–16 victory. The win was especially meaningful for the Panthers after Mount Spokane had won five of the previous six meetings between the rivals. With an explosive offensive performance, timely defensive stops, and strong execution throughout the game, Mead reclaimed the Victory Bell and earned an important rivalry win.