WENATCHEE — Mayor Dennis Johnson made a surprise visit to the Wenatchee High School football team’s weekly dinner on Wednesday night, and proclaimed this Friday’s game the first step in the pathway to the playoffs.

Wenatchee, ranked sixth in this week’s Associated Press poll, plays Richland in the Columbia Basin Big Nine divisional crossover game at 7 p.m. at the Apple Bowl.

Johnson told the assembled players and coaches that their success is felt by the entire Wenatchee community.

“We want to tell you how proud the community is of all you’ve accomplished,” Johnson said. “You’re an inspiration to the community, from those of you just starting your time on the freshman team to those seniors on the varsity.”

The Wenatchee players, who didn’t learn Johnson was coming to their team dinner until after Wednesday’s practice ended, were humbled.

“It’s pretty amazing,” said senior center Mike Marboe. “I know Wenatchee is a growing community, but something like this shows that it still has a small-town feel. We were all pretty surprised to see the mayor. It’s pretty cool.”

Brian Adamowsky: 664-7157

adamowsky@wenatcheeworld.com