The much-anticipated Battle of the Bridge is taking a “junior” turn this year, with youth programs joining the cross-river rivalry.

The Battle of the Bridge is the annual football game between Enumclaw and White River high schools. This year’s contest takes place Friday, Sept. 2, at the Enumclaw Expo Center.

The night before, the Enumclaw Junior Hornets and White River Wolverines will square off on the turf at White River High School. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. and admission will be $2 per person.

Both of the junior football/cheer programs offer programs for kids in elementary and middle school. The Sept. 1 game will feature teams comprised of seventh- and eighth-graders.

Because the programs have different affiliations – White River in the Nisqually Junior Football League and Enumclaw in the Narrows Junior Football League – they do not play each other during the regular season.