A Rivalry Reimagined
The long‑standing football rivalry between Evanston Township High School and New Trier High School will culminate on October 16, 2026, when the two teams take the field at Northwestern University’s brand‑new Ryan Field.
The announcement caught many Evanston players off guard, as they had assumed they were merely touring the facility, while New Trier’s squad had been briefed about the ceremony a week earlier and kept the news under wraps.
Beyond the game, the event is part of a larger push to integrate the Evanston community with the new stadium, which will also host basketball contests and other campus activities, giving local fans a rare glimpse of college‑level amenities.
The series dates back to 1913, and although the all‑time record favors Evanston with a 57‑54‑6 edge, the recent stretch has seen the teams trade victories, splitting the last four meetings from 2022 through 2025.
Northwestern’s athletic director highlighted that the matchup represents the largest financial undertaking in college football history, and for coach Miles Oseo, the chance to play in such a venue is an opportunity few high‑school athletes will ever experience.
Local officials and school leaders alike see the game as a catalyst for youth engagement, hoping the exposure will inspire the next generation of players and reinforce the region’s rich sports heritage.