EAST JORDAN — Friday night was already going to be a big night at Boswell Stadium in East Jordan for the fans of the East Jordan and Charlevoix football teams.
But, the non-conference rivalry clash that both sides always look forward to comes with a little extra this year, as it’ll also come as a cancer awareness night and fundraiser for East Jordan Sports Booster President, Jim Brown.
Brown, who is also known for some of the best popcorn at Red Devil sporting events, is currently battling cancer.
A goal of selling 500 bags of Brown’s famous popcorn on the night has been set, while there’s also a dash for cash planned, 50/50 and other fundraiser games.
East Jordan High School and Middle School also held a ‘Jammies for Jim’ pajamas day Thursday for those who donated, with all proceeds going to help expenses for the Brown family.
The winning class in each building was then awarded a pizza party complimentary of BC Pizza.
The students and staff in all raised over $4,500 for Brown Thursday.
On the football field Friday night, both Charlevoix and East Jordan will head in at 4-1 overall on the season, making it the first time since 2016 that both sides will head in with a winning record, as each also played a week six matchup that season at 4-1.
The Red Devils have leaned on a defense that’s held opponents to just 40 total points on the season, posting shutouts in back to back games, while also not allowing an opponent to top 100 total yards in three straight games.
Senior linebacker Zander Johnecheck leads the area with 53 total tackles, despite missing week three. He’s also totaled 8.5 tackles for a loss.
The connection of EJ quarterback Tommy Reid and wideout Hayden Peck has been another key piece to the Red Devils’ success, with the two hooking up for five touchdowns through five weeks.
For the Rayders, it’s been all about senior quarterback Caleb Stuck, who leads the area with 869 yards through the air, 12 touchdowns and no interceptions. He’s also rushed for 250 yards and three scores.
The Rayders have plenty of weapons to keep Stuck happy as well, highlighted by Patrick Sterrett, Evan Solomon and Max Ostrum.
Both the Charlevoix and East Jordan communities are encouraged to show up, show support and buy some popcorn for Jim Friday night.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 1 in East Jordan.
Contact Sports Editor Drew Kochanny at dkochanny@petoskeynews.com. Follow him on Twitter, @DrewKochanny, and Instagram, @drewkochanny
