The stadium is lit up with roars and chants from the crowd, the bleachers shake beneath the jumping feet of students adorned in red, white and blue. Over the patriotism blasting from the speakers, every cheer resonates across the field to the North side, awaiting the last regular season game and the year’s biggest rivalry.
The game is seen as a unifying event for the community, symbolizing more than just sports. After a hard-fought game of hard work and effort, South triumphed, taking home the win 44-7, with their next goal being to reach Ford Field at the state championship.
During an intense game, the energy in the stands is crucial in maintaining the level of enthusiasm. Leaders of South’s student section, Devils Den, Kate George ‘26, shares how the lively and encouraging theme drives students to show up and keep momentum on the field for this particular game.
“For this game, you can really go all out with your outfit,” George said. “The USA theme adds a lot of excitement to an already exciting game.”
In addition to using on-theme tactics such as chants, songs, megaphones and entertaining games to keep the student section involved, this game is remarkable because it brings the student body together in unison.
“This is one of the only times that we are all united as a school,” George said. “It is really fun seeing all of the grades bonded together through this fun theme.”
Leader of North’s student section, The Norsemen Tide, Luke Leonhard ‘26, explains what the best part of the infamous halftime tug of war is, and why his team won.
“The best part of tug of war is representing North,” Leonhard said. “We won because we are genuine in clearly following the rules and fighting fairly.”
Leonhard shares what he’s most excited about leading the student section for a rivalry game like this one.
“I’m most excited about getting the students loud and engaged in the game to show parents and the community what North really is,” Leonhard said.
Middle linebacker, Throop Linnell ‘26 shares how this big win indicates that this team will not only be a win on paper, but a tangible memory of such a vibrant and victorious team recollection.
“It’s sort of like etching my name into South history in a way,” Linnell said. “With the trophy, the record, and the fact that when I become an alumni, this rivalry game will still be talked about for a long time.”
As South runs onto the field of bright lights and loud cheers, Linnell expresses his awe of the spirited student body cheering his team on.
“Running out and just seeing everyone cheering and in theme,” Linnell said. “It’s such a fun atmosphere.”
Linnell discusses the game’s ability to unite the town through an electrifying environment that goes beyond athletics and highlights Grosse Pointe’s unique feeling of togetherness.
“It’s just a way for people to rally behind Grosse Pointe South, it feels bigger than football,” Linnell said. “It’s about the community getting together and the feeling of community when everyone can rally behind something.
Linnell expresses that he feels the spirit, an almost euphoric sense, that his team is the greatest in town, and that South should not be overlooked because they have put in so much effort to get to where they are. Following their major victory, they will play Roseville in hopes of making it to the state championship.
“I hope people remember that this team worked together and worked hard for the win,” Linnell said. “We’re coming for Ford Field, we’re coming for the state championship, and we’re not to be messed with.”
