One of the most anticipated times of the school year is back: football season. One of Lockport’s most unifying pastimes is back underway as the Porters’ varsity football team takes down Plainfield North 14-8. A new season means that LTHS will be without some of their graduated players, but with what goes out, fresh new talent comes in. What will this new team and season bring to the legacy of Lockport football? To comment more was senior wide receiver, Josh Ahrens.
This year will be no easy season for the Porters. As their season progresses, Lockport will go on to face a number of ranked opponents such as Wheaton North and Lincoln-Way East. Each one of these teams were ranked top 10 in their respective classes by the sports writers at the AP. Despite the immense amount of competition and pressure from both ranked and unranked opponents this season, Ahrens emphasizes that their grit and mindset has not changed. The newly senior players have not taken the disappointment of last season’s playoff run lightly, so their determination and willingness to work even harder is at an all time high. One of the key parts of success for Lockport this season will be its insane defensive line. Even just from one game, the D line made quite the impression on opponents and will continue to be an asset that is relied on for the Porters.
As highlighted by Ahrens, one of the team’s toughest games will be the game against Lincoln-Way East. The Griffins were named #1 in the 8A class, but along with the high ranking also pose a two-decade old challenge. Lockport has not beaten LWE in over 22 years, so playing them in this year’s most attended game has only intensified the pressure. Despite this, nothing will discourage the Porters from victory and will rely on their peers to bring the excitement and energy.
What seems to be the most exciting time for the players and coaches is the postseason run to state. No one has forgotten Lockport’s State Championship in 2021, especially not the current varsity players. If there is one goal this season, it is to get back into that championship mindset. There is nothing like feeling the rush and energy of the playoffs knowing that every play matters moving forward. “There is excitement and pride in the fact that you’ve been able to make it farther than all the other teams who lost”, highlights Ahrens.
But, of course, the support of the students is one of the most important parts of being able to create an atmosphere like no other. With the limited number of home games this season, do not pass up on the opportunity to see the LTHS football team create some magic this season, and fight to get another State ring.
