Ridge Football Still Unbeaten With Homecoming Win

The buzz was that it was a game not to miss, for many reasons.

In a season of games that have continuously satisfied fans, the Ridge High School Red Devils celebrated Friday's homecoming game with a 34-0 win over their opponents from North Hunterdon High School.

A string of wins that started with the Red Devils trouncing Montgomery the first week of school, leading to a sweet victory over rival Immaculata High School and posting a most recent win against Somerville High School last week has led Ridge to a 5-0 season.

Nick Franzese, Evan Skea, Mike Sibilia and Adam Walker scored touchdowns.

Next week, the team faces Plainfield High School in Plainfield, and head coach Bill Tracy said that means a lot of hard work for the team, with "focus."

But in the post-game rally on the field, Tracy told the team, "I'm very proud of you guys."

He added to a group of happy players, "We win next weekend, it's ours."

The victory had even more meaning because of a number of special groups to attend the game, including members of the Class of 1967, which was celebrating its 45th reunion.

Tracy said the game was dedicated to longtime Ridge football in which many remembered Ridge's own version of a beloved coach.

"Tonight meant a lot to a lot of people," Tracy said after the game. He said Harry Bush's daughter, Laura, was at the game. He added Ridge alumni athlete Stu Rickerson had stopped by to say to the team.

Homecoming couple chosen

This year's Homecoming couple was also chosen — seniors Kevin Shih and Mackenzie Marcus.

Marcus, who is a cheerleader said she was "floored," but honored by being crowned.

"It was a great night for Ridge football," Tracy said.

As elsewhere, the players and cheerleaders wore traces of pink to signify breast cancer awareness.