Football is a staple of most American high schools, and Highland Park is no exception. Student athletes are driven by spirit and the glory of success, but trouble arises when wins evade them no matter how hard they chase their goals.
Mr. Shawn Harrison began his football career as a star athlete at HPHS and returned to the team in 2019 as head coach. With four years of experience leading the team, Coach Harrison understands what drives his players’ ambition: “Winning, winning, winning.” This answer may raise some eyebrows as the Owls have not won a game in their league since 2016, but Coach Harrison holds onto hope. “The program is finally where it needs to be to put a productive team out there on the field and to give us the best chance to win.”
At their October 13 homecoming game, the football team lost their game against Manville High School by a score of 49-22. Given the team’s 7-year losing streak, how does football maintain its popularity in Highland Park? Students express that the games are entertaining experiences despite the end result. “It's something to look forward to even if the outcome of the game isn’t what people want,” says sophomore and regular football spectator Julia Stevens. Other students tend to agree with her. “It’s a good social event and Highland Park High School isn't a big school…It’s nice to see everyone bond through school spirit,” explains Scarlett Wolfe. Despite regular losses, the attendees’ energy feeds the players’ performances, and the athletes’ efforts keep their peers coming back.
Besides the outcome of the games, there is still something more important to focus on—the players. “My favorite part about being on the football team is being able to socialize with friends and also being able to work on myself to get better. When it comes to a least favorite thing, I don’t have one,” says athlete Matthew Zapor, who holds the sport close to his heart.
Testimonies such as these reveal that the sport offers more than competition. Highland Park football teaches its players camaraderie and resilience, and the student section attests to the town’s unwavering spirit and supportive community. Coach Harrison encourages those who might be interested in joining the football team, "Sometimes it’s good to come out of your circle to step outside of what you consider to be normal. Try new things and different points of view, and different perspectives, and that could help you along.”