D-113 Showdown Critical For Deerfield, Highland Park

Much is at stake for Friday night’s District 113 rivalry between the Deerfield and Highland Park High School football teams in Highland Park.

Following an undefeated regular season in 2014, the Highland Park Giants find themselves struggling out of the gate at 1-4 and would be eliminated from postseason contention with a loss to Deerfield.

“This game means everything,” Giants senior Cristian Volpentesta said in a Pioneer Press preview. “It’s the epitome of high school football right here. A rivalry like this just doesn’t come around. Being a senior, this is the last time I’ll get to play Deerfield. It’s a game I’m gonna remember as long as I live.”

The Warriors find themselves in better position, riding a two-game win streak at 3-2 with the playoffs still very much a possibility.

“It’s been awhile since we started the season 3-2,” said Deerfield coach Steve Winiecki. “We know what’s at stake, and while it’s important to get excited for a big game like this, we also have to be careful to keep our emotions in check a little bit.”

more via Pioneer Press