A Late‑Night Tradition
At the stroke of midnight on Monday, the Cedar Rapids Washington football squad gathered on the field for a Midnight Madness practice that has become a rite of passage for the program. The late‑hour session, steeped in tradition, saw players engage in drills and teamwork exercises designed to cement chemistry before the first official game.
Senior running back Equon Jackson explained that the timing is more than a gimmick; it sends a clear signal about the team’s commitment to collective effort. "It’s a message to the whole team about effort and dedication," Jackson said, while wide receiver Bonfils 'Trey' Iranzi admitted he could not sleep, his excitement mirroring the hour at which the practice began.
Steak Over Sizzle
Head coach Eric Addy, who brought the Midnight Madness concept from his days as an assistant at Des Moines North under coach Keith Hanks, described the ritual as a cornerstone of the team’s identity. "We’re building something that reflects who we are," Addy noted, emphasizing that the practice is the first step toward a season defined by perseverance.
The coaching staff has long championed a 'steak over sizzle' philosophy, prioritizing hard work and sustained effort over flashy displays. This mindset, particularly among the senior class, has resulted in an unbroken record of participation in the Midnight Madness sessions, reinforcing a culture where dedication is measured by consistent action rather than spectacle.