Friday, September 2 was a new opportunity for two football teams: It was the first time Libertyville and Urban Prep played against each other.
At the end of last season, Libertyville and Carmel did not renew their annual contract. With the new slot available, Urban Prep Academy contacted Libertyville’s Athletic Director (Briant Kelly) asking to set up a game this season, according to Libertyville assistant coach Mike Jones.
Urban Prep not only played a game at Libertyville, but also came up early for a pre-game meal. They enjoyed Lino’s mostaccioli, grapes, watermelon, and Gatorade.
“It’s an opportunity to have conversation and understand the similarity of both schools from the differences of the city and the suburbs,” said Urban Prep coach Othiniel Mahone before the dinner.
Tradition collided when Urban Prep made the long and “traffic filled” ride up to Libertyville on that Friday night.
“My team and myself are very excited to play under the Friday night lights,” Urban Prep senior and captain JaBrice Reese said. Reese said they play mostly on Saturday mornings. Before he even played he said that Libertyville felt “comfortable.”
Coach Mahone said that his football program is new and still growing. He felt that playing at Libertyville was a good experience for his boys because they are trying to “bring tradition to the city.” Urban Prep has only had a football program for four years.
Urban Prep is for African-Americans males. Last year, 100% of the school's seniors graduated and were accepted into four-year colleges.
Coach Jones said, “It will be a good experience because Urban Prep is very athletic and we are more used to people running the ball toward the gap. Urban Prep will run a more spread offense.”
LHS won the game, 24-0.