Langley students scattered like bees in smoke as plastic bottles and trash at the hands of Highlanders rained down upon the exiting crowd. It was later that night that holes in the bleachers were discovered by McLean administrators.
Such was the scene at the annual Langley-McLean varsity basketball game last December. For years, the Mclean-Langley rivalry has fired up Langley students and heated an intense rivalry. For example, seniors, in the past, have worn red the Friday before Homecoming. This is no coincidence – the red was meant to act as a decoy from Langley students as they ransacked the local community.
Over the past few years the rivalry has shifted gears. Chants and student animosity have led to a game time atmosphere that some coaches find disparaging.
“Chants aren’t in supports of either team,” varsity boys basketball coach Travis Hess said, “they’re cheers against either the players or fans.”
The rivalry has strayed too far away from the football field, according to coach Brian Lamb said, “It’s unfortunate when the students make it about themselves and less about the game itself.”
On the other hand, some feel the rivalry is quite under control.
“I’m not worried about the behavior at the games,” said Principal Matt Ragone. “If you look around at other teams, it can get much worse.”
Either way, Mclean-Langley games continue to be some of the most anticipated games of the entire season for students and players alike.
“The game’s great, I hate McLean,” said sophomore Brooks Norris. “The only point of the season is to beat them.”
No matter the situation, Langley and McLean will continue to share a common hatred come game day due to years of back and forth antics, off the field. When on the field, historically, Langley has come out on top.
“I believe there is jealousy on their end because the rivalry for the past few years has been pretty one-sided,” coach Hess said.
With the McLean-Langley football game last night, there was yet another chance to fire up the rivalry that is so much bigger than any sport. It is off the field and in the stands and in the spirit which spreads like tiny embers, spreading their smoke, ready at any given moment to ignite.
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Photos by Na He Jeon