Are You Ready For Some Football, Glenview?

GLENVIEW, IL — After being postponed since the fall due to the pandemic, high school football is finally back. Though teams will only be competing in a shortened six-game season with no postseason, players, coaches and fans alike are excited about the return of Friday Night Lights.

Practices officially began just over two weeks ago on March 3.

Glenbrook South kicks off the season on the road at New Trier on Friday. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

Last week, the Illinois High School Association announced more fans will be allowed in the stands for outdoor competitions in the state. The news followed updated guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health and will allow regions in Phase 4 to increase spectators from 50 people to 20 percent capacity for outdoor sports only

More Fans Allowed At IHSA Outdoor Games, State Finals Back

"We have been adamant in our discussions with IDPH that we believe we can safely and responsibly expand spectator guidelines without risking the general public to greater exposure to COVID-19," IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said.

Here's a quick look at some of the local teams:

GLENBROOK SOUTH TITANS

Courtesy of Coach Dave Schoenwetter

Last season: 4-5. No postseason. "We did not make the playoffs. But after a tough start to the season, we won 4 of our last 5 games and came in second in the CSL South."

Captains:

• Anthony Travlos (SR. Defensive back)
• Michael Carney (SR linebacker)
• Michael Bauer (SR Quarterback)
• Will Solis (SR Linebacker)

Other key players:

• Tommy Gebien (SR Wide receiver)
• Rory Tovcimak (SR Linebacker)
• Joe Thein (SR Defensive back)
• Devonjae Hudson (SR Defensive lineman)
• Charlie Tomsheck (senior OL)
• Daniel Choi (SR OL)

What has preparing for this unique season been like?

"This year has been a roller coaster. We never lost faith that a season would happen, but there have been some tough stretches. We are very proud of our players for staying the course and supporting each other through hard times. In addition, our coaches did a terrific job or reaching out and supporting our players during difficult times."

What are some of the areas you expect this team to excel at, and how would you describe your offensive/defensive concepts?

"We have a good number of seniors returning and we hope that they can lead the way this year. We especially have a good number of defensive starters returning. We hope to be solid on defense."

With a short season, what goals have you set for this team, and what are some of your expectations for a successful season?

"Our goal is to win the CSL South and to give all of our players a positive football experience. We especially hope to give our seniors a great year. "

GLENBROOK NORTH SPARTANS

Courtesy of Coach Matt Purdy

Last season: 4-5, no postseason

Key players:

• Jackson Carsello - OL/DL
• Avery Burow - WR/LB
• Luke Henry - WR/LB
• Drake Marquez - TB/DB
• Ryan Henschel WR-DB
• Nicky Ullrich WR/DB

What has preparing for this unique season been like?

"The preparation was a daily challenge, never knowing what was going to happen from one day to another but our players were always ready for every opportunity given to them."

What are some of the areas you expect this team to excel at, and how would you describe your offensive/defensive concepts?

"We have a great deal of experience returning this year on both sides of the ball and even with all of the struggles we have had this past year we have a very focused group of young men who are excited to play football together. This shortened season presents many challenges and our upperclassmen have done everything necessary to be successful. They understand the difficulties ahead and are willing to make the necessary sacrifices that will lead to success on the field. These guys have GRIT and can't wait to play a football game."

With a short season, what goals have you set for this team, and what are some of your expectations for a successful season?

"One of our biggest strengths is our leadership on the team, they are focused and understand how to make an impact on their teammates. I am very excited to see how both our lines play with a number of very talented players back, perhaps one of our biggest areas of excitement is our perimeter plays on both sides of the ball. We have great receivers and DB's returning, finally, our kicking game should be very fun to watch."