It might not be home, but it’s as close as the Oak Harbor football team is going to get to hosting a playoff football game.

The Wildcats, who finished the regular season at 8-1 overall and the Western Conference North champions on Friday, earned the right to “host” a state-qualifying game at 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 5 at Mount Vernon High School against Spanaway Lake.

“We’re glad we don’t have to go any farther than Mount Vernon,” OHHS head coach Dave Ward said. “We wish it was at our own place, but maybe someday.”

This playoff appearance marks the third time in the last four years the Wildcats have faced this dilemma.

In 2002 OHHS earned the right to host a first round state game against Mountain View, but had to play at Everett’s Goddard Stadium. In 2003 they were supposed to host a first round state game against Ballard, but had to play at Mount Vernon.

District officials continue to rule Oak Harbor’s 58-year-old Memorial Stadium unsuitable for playoff games for several reasons, including an inadequate playing surface, minimal parking and lack of seats.

A $6.5 million bond for a new stadium with an artificial surface and covered seats is on the ballot for Tuesday’s election.

The bond also covers the construction of a new track along with renovated tennis courts and surrounding playing fields.