How to watch Libertyville High football team's title game
The undefeated Libertyville High School football team got a pep talk from Principal Marina Scott on Wednesday, just a few days before the Wildcats' state-title showdown against Glenbard West.
With parents, siblings and cheerleaders looking on in the main gym, Scott stood before the team and praised the young athletes for the teamwork they've exhibited this season, as well as the spirit they've shown on and off the field.
"There is something special about this group," Scott said. "I think we're going to see that this weekend."
Libertyville High School Athletic Director Briant Kelly spoke briefly, too, talking about how the players have prepared for the big game.
Libertyville and Glenbard West meet for the Class 7A championship at 4 p.m. Saturday at Northern Illinois University's Huskie Stadium in DeKalb.
Tickets are $10 each and can be ordered online at ticketmaster.com. They'll be available at the stadium, too.
If you're not going to DeKalb for the big game, you can watch it on TV or online. All eight final games will be broadcast live on CSN Chicago TV and streamed online at csnchicago.com.
Marlene Schaffer will be at the game to root for her son, Wildcats wide receiver Cam Shaffer. Some of the Wildcats have been playing football together for 10 years, she said, going back to organized youth leagues.
They have each other's backs," said Shaffer, of Libertyville. "They're a family."
The Wildcats will depart Libertyville High at noon Saturday. Fans are welcome to cheer on the team as they leave.
A fan bus will head to DeKalb at 1 p.m. Saturday. People taking the bus should gather at the school's front entrance.
The team and fans are expected to return to Libertyville High on Saturday night.
Win or lose, the team will be honored at the school Monday.
The athletes will march through the school at the start of third period, about 9:20 a.m. Parents are welcome to attend.
More information about Libertyville High's pregame and postgame festivities can be found online at lhswildcats.org/story/november-28th-state-7a-football-title-game.
Not surprisingly, Scott is optimistic about Libertyville's chances.
"I would love to see you lifting that first-place trophy," she told the team. "You can do it. Bring it home."