WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. -- This week is set to be monumental for high school football enthusiasts on the Delmarva Peninsula. Because not one but two schools are poised to vie for the coveted state championship.
The spotlight is on Stephen Decatur High School in Worcester County and Cape Henlopen High School in Sussex County. Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch as both teams gear up for a potential triumphant conclusion to their seasons.
The communities surrounding these schools are rallying fervently behind their respective teams, creating an atmosphere of palpable excitement.
Thursday night is poised to be a pivotal moment for Stephen Decatur. At 7:00 p.m., the Seahawks will face off against Huntingtown.
Melanie Coleman has a lot of stake in this matchup. Her son Bryson is the starting quarterback, and her husband is the head coach.
"There's a lot of emotions in my house, but all really great emotions," said Coleman.
Ty Bolden, whose son is donning the Seahawks' colors for the first time this year, expresses gratitude for the supportive community.
"Everybody has embraced him, which has helped this journey; it just feels like family, such a good fit for him," said Bolden. "I'm just so grateful and excited to witness it and be here with him."
Recognizing the importance of a good meal for peak performance, Buxy's Salty Dog has stepped in to ensure that the team is well-fed before each playoff game.
Douglas Buxbaum, the owner, said it's something his restaurant has done for the team for the past three years. This year, he's making sure the players are eating like champions.
"You know I think I told ya, lobster and filet if they go all the way," said Buxbaum.
Meanwhile, in Sussex County, the Lewes community is gearing up to cheer on the Cape Henlopen Vikings as they prepare for a showdown against Salesianum.
Theresa Brittingham, a graduate of Cape Henlopen, said she is confident in the team's ability.
"We know the talent's there, sometimes we don't have the resources that they have upstate, but to know this came from grit so this is awesome," said Brittingham.
As the excitement builds, Lily Little, a senior at Cape Henlopen, is hopeful that this year will be a memorable one for her school.
"I'm very excited for them, and I hope they win. I really am proud of them," said Little. "I was doubtful about the last two games, but I am very proud of how they have shown off and really shown themselves."
Two Delmarva schools and their communities are eagerly gearing up for what could potentially be a historic day on the gridiron.
Stephen Decatur will play on Thursday night at the US Naval Academy. Cape Henlopen plays on Friday at the University of Delaware. Kickoff for both games is 7:00 p.m.