The homecoming game is one of the most pivotal games of Neuqua’s football season and this year, students were worried. “It would ruin homecoming if we lost our game,” said Sophomore Meghan Gradle, “St. Charles East is a good team and I really hope we don’t lose.” Scheduled on the Friday before the dance, the homecoming game is vastly attended and is one of many events that kick-off, no pun intended, as well as gets students excited for homecoming.This year, however, the opponent had been changed from Streamwood to the intimidating St. Charles East, and many students did not know why. To add to the worry of a possible loss, St. Charles East easily beat Waubonsie (21-0) and pulled a victory against Lake Park (42-41). Contrary to belief, it is not up to the football team to choose the opponents for the game. “That’s a common misconception,” said Head Football Coach Bryan Wells, “we’re consulted on our preference, but have no say on whom we end up playing.” Homecoming events are mostly organized by Student Council and the opponent for the game comes down to the dates that are set for homecoming. “The opponents we could choose from this year came down to the Bartlett or St. Charles East team,” said Wells. There is also a misconception in the team we’ve played in the past homecoming games. “We’ve played Streamwood all these years, and now we have to play St. Charles East; this is going to be tough,” said Sophomore Maggie Hung. But, contrary to this belief, it is also untrue. “In fact, we played St. Charles East two years ago,” confirmed Wells.
After a disappointing loss to Waubonsie, the faith that students held in the football team had been shaken. This, however, did not faze Wells or his team. “The way we play should depend on our team, not on other outside opinions,” said Wells. This was ultimately shown in the homecoming game as the final score flickered onto the scoreboard. The crowd sang, yelled, and cheered for the team as one overtime after another was added to the game. Finally, after a grueling quadruple overtime, with a score of 49-42, the Neuqua Varsity football team celebrated a tremendous victory. “The game was amazing,” said Student Council Administrator Karyl Grecu, “the football team really deserves an ovation.”
By Hong-Ah Do, staff writer
