Ewing High School Football will take on Cinnaminson Oct. 19 under the lights on Bruce Martz Field. While a night football game may not elicit tremendous surprise or emotion in Ewing now, 20 years ago that was not the case.
On Oct. 23, 1998, EHS football played its first night game, defeating Steinert under portable lights on its home turf. The game was made possible due to the fundraising efforts of football parents and boosters.
“It was a very special time for the community,” then-head coach Craig Wood said. “The atmosphere was electric, the event was a big draw, the athletes were excited, and the night was a success.”
After the first game, the school board and administration saw the value of night football, and it set aside money for permanent lights at the athletic complex.
“This was the first step towards the outstanding athletic facility we have now,” said board of education member Anthony Messina, who was a coach for the Blue Devils at the time. “Now student athletes from all our sports teams have the opportunity to compete under the lights on a turf field at their own school. It all started on that day, and we owe all those involved gratitude.”
At the Oct. 19 football game, the athletic department will be partnering with longtime friend of the district The Credit Union of New Jersey for a giveaway to celebrate the anniversary.
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