Columbus high schools team up for rivalry game with a message of community

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The historic rivalry between Linden-McKinley and East High School, two of the best in the Columbus City School District, is more than just a game. Community leaders use the event to spread a message of unity and positivity.

“You know, it’s Ohio State-Michigan, it’s kind of a rivalry for alumni on both sides,” said Mike Bell, East High’s head football coach.

Casey Mock, head football coach at Linden-McKinley High School, emphasized the importance of the game to the community. “We told the kids this week about the importance of this to the community so they know it. I hope they feel it,” he said.

Players from both teams are determined to win. “We have to win one, we have to win one for my seniors,” Linden-McKinley guard Davell Brock said.

East running back Ta’ Jon Royster emphasized the need for teamwork. “We all have to come together as a team and just work together. When we work together, no one can beat you,” he said.

Backstage, volunteers hand out T-shirts with messages of unity: “We Are Linden” and “We Are East” to unite everyone, whether Tiger or Panther.

Ralph Carter, founder of We Are Linden, said: “Unity. We are Columbus. Everyone has their own “we”. This is our message for the whole city.”

Organizers of the “We Are Linden” rally aim to curb recent youth crime and violence, such as carjackings involving local teenagers, by promoting a message of peace and uniting heated rivals for the common good.

“Show yourself and show yourself to our children,” Carter urged.

Coaches understand the impact of this event extends beyond football.

“We want to change the narrative about Linden and East,” Bell said. “There are a lot of great young people here, a lot of great people doing a lot of great things. Often you hear negativity, but there are many children who study, many children go to school. , a lot of kids who are part of something positive.”