Join us for a free evening of school spirit, community, and celebration as we launch our 2026 Fall Sports Season!

Whether you are a St. Francis student-athlete, a proud parent, or a member of the greater Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools (GTACS) community, we invite you to kick off the fall sports season with us at Thirlby Field in Traverse City. Go Glads!

Schedule of Events

4:30 PM | Season Kick-Off BBQ

• All are invited! Join us for burgers, hot dogs, sides, drinks, and dessert.

5:30 PM | Meet the Teams Presentation

• An introduction to our 2026 fall season Varsity athletes, coaches, cheerleading squad, and band.
• Cross country, football, girls golf, boys soccer, girls swimming and diving, boys tennis, and volleyball.

6:30 PM | Family Breakout

• Little Gladiator Fun Stations: Future Gladiators (IC/SEAS students) are invited to hit the field for games and activities led by our Varsity athletes!
• Parent Information Meeting: Athletic Director Aaron Biggar will host a mandatory session for fall sports parents regarding the upcoming season.

7:00 PM | Community Rosary

• We conclude the evening in unity as a community.

WHEN: Sunday, August 16, 2026 | 4:30pm – 7:30pm

WHERE: Thirlby Field, Traverse City, MI

ATTENDANCE:

Fall Sport Athletes, Coaches, and Parents: Attendance is mandatory.

• Cross country, football, girls golf, boys soccer, girls swimming and diving, boys tennis, volleyball, cheerleading, and band.

All other St. Francis & GTACS families: We would love to see you there! Come show your support and get to know our programs.