Chizevsky Field was awash in school spirit Friday night as the Newton Eagles welcomed Casey-Westfield for a Little Illini Conference matchup, with Pink Out Night adding an important community message to the evening.
Before the game, Sarah Bush Lincoln presented a check to the Newton Athletic Boosters for the proceeds from their annual sports physical nights.
Fans were encouraged to show their support by incorporating pink into their game-night attire as the Newton community came together not only to support the Eagles, but also to bring attention to cancer awareness and the importance of supporting those affected by the disease.
The evening provided the backdrop for an impressive performance by the Newton football team, which continued its strong play at home with a convincing 42-14 victory over Casey-Westfield on September 4. The win improved the Eagles to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in Little Illini Conference play, while Casey-Westfield fell to 1-2.
Newton entered the game coming off a 55-7 victory over Wesclin in its previous home contest. The Eagles had also opened the season with a 36-26 loss to Civic Memorial before bouncing back with consecutive victories.
The Casey-Westfield game marked Newton’s second straight win and gave the Eagles a perfect 2-0 record at home early in the season.
While the scoreboard provided plenty to celebrate, Pink Out Night offered another reason for the Newton community to come together. Cancer survivor Tonya Hall was the coin tosser for the game and was escorted onto the field by her son Garrett a former Newton Eagles football player.
Events such as these turn a football game into something bigger than the competition on the field, providing an opportunity for students, athletes, families and fans to stand together in support of friends and loved ones affected by cancer.
Friday’s victory also continued Newton’s turnaround after the season-opening loss. With the Eagles now 2-1, attention turns to the next challenge: a Little Illini Conference road game at Mt. Carmel on Friday, September 11, at 7 p.m.
