On Sep 5, Mount Prospect challenged the Palatine football team on our home turf, Chic Anderson Stadium. Because this game was one of the few home matches the Pirates have, the atmosphere was electric, with the team rising up for the challenge.
The theme was a “Gold Out” to raise awareness for pediatric cancer, and almost every student showed their support. The chilly night, coupled with the excitement of the game, made the match even more memorable.
“Our offense looks very strong right now,” Principal Tony Medina said. “We have some very good, sustained drives. Just gotta shore things up on defense, which I’m sure Coach Prentis, the defensive coordinator, will do.”
With the halftime score being 17–17, both predictions proved accurate. The Pirates had multiple turnovers while also gaining some points. They only missed one field goal, and it was just the start.
“We have a great offensive line, a great quarterback, and a lot of speed,” Medina said. “You know, we’re a little young on defense, but I think if we can clean up, like Mr. Arroyo said, we should be just fine,” There were some doubts. The defense was, as they said, young and a little smaller, but in the end, we pulled through.
The halftime break was what really got the Pirates going. The talks the various coaches gave helped focus the players, and the Pirates honed in through the rest of the game — especially in overtime. Winning by just 2 points in OT, the Pirates showed us they can pull through when needed.
“I believe that we are continually strong no matter who leaves because of the way we develop our lower levels,” Athletic Director Luis Arroyo said. “That’s the magic of Palatine. We can watch a B-team player as a freshman come out here and develop into a key varsity player. All this just really speaks to our unique coaching staff, and I’d put our staff against any other coaching team in Illinois — hands down.”
While the score may have looked close, there was no doubt the Pirates were ready to win. Their record this year is up for debate, going against many tough opponents, but if this game is a preview, the Pirates will have a great year.
