With the crowd abuzz and anticipation in the air, the 2015 Middletown High School North Lions football season got off to a roaring start.  With the student body decked out in red, white, and blue to honor and remember those lost 14 years ago to the day in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, a whoosh of pride in the country and in the school took over Middletown North.

During the school day, the halls donned ribbons, balloons, and posters cheering on the boys in black and orange.  They were filled with chatter about the arrival of football.

“It’s what high school is all about,” one freshman told me.  “Seeing the halls all decorated and the students wearing America’s colors, it will be fun.”  

In the music wing, the band students were filled with excitement with regards to their week one performance.  

“It’s what brings the school community together,” a senior band member told me.  “The cheer team, dance team, band, and, obviously, the football team are all on display.  Sure, baseball and basketball draw crowds, but you have so many aspects coming together for football (it is a) whole different animal.”

Obviously, from outside of locker room, Middletown North is amped for the 2015 football season.  But what about the guys closest with the program?

Junior football manager Michael Borrielo is, “cautiously optimistic,” with regards to the opening  game.  “I don’t know what they’ve got, so I can’t guarantee a win, but I love what we have.  The seniors are primed and ready to go knowing that it will be their last season at North; and the class of 2017 is, I feel, probably one of the best around.  The sky’s the limit for them.  We also have some great sophomores and frosh coming up the pipe.”

Nick Kish, the reigning leader in tackles for the Lions, is a man of few words, but let The Lions Roar ask him two questions.  I asked Kish if the Lions would win the game on the 11th, and finish the year with a winning record.

From underneath a grin, Kish said, “yes,” to both question.  The grin soon turned to a full on smile, as even the mild mannered Kish could not contain his excitement.

With the Lions ready for a fantastic 2015 season, all of Middletown North is encouraged to come to the games this season and cheer on a program on the rise.