Local high school football rivalry comes to Ryan Field

Two weeks after Northwestern football opens Ryan Field against Penn State on Friday, Oct. 2, the University will host the Evanston Township High School (ETHS)-New Trier High School rivalry game on Friday, Oct. 16.

“When we sought approval for the new Ryan Field, we committed that this stadium would be more than just a home for Big Ten football,” said Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of Ryan Sports Development. “It would be a year-round asset for our community.”

When we sought approval for the new Ryan Field, we committed that this stadium would be more than just a home for Big Ten football.”

Along with the football game at Ryan Field, the Evanston Fellowship of Afro-American Men basketball tournament will be played at Welsh-Ryan Arena in September. In addition, the ETHS boys and girls basketball teams will play a doubleheader there against New Trier on Friday, Feb. 5, 2027.

Ryan Field will host other local events geared toward the community, including holiday celebrations, movie nights, as well as other Northwestern athletic events, redefining what a college football stadium can be used for.

“We’re trying to build a legacy here,” said Dave Davis, Northwestern’s assistant vice president of Neighborhood and Community Relations. “Our aim is to find ways to engage the community in a wide range of events and experiences throughout the year. And this rivalry game is just another way to bring our neighbors out to the new Ryan Field.”