The spirit of Elmhurst is soaring as the York Dukes prepare to make their first ever appearance in the IHSA 8A State Football Championship! This historic moment will take place on Saturday, November 30, at Illinois State University, and the excitement in the
community is palpable.
The York Dukes football team, with its grit, determination, and teamwork, has captivated the hearts of Elmhurst residents throughout its remarkable season. The team will take the field on
the biggest stage in Illinois high school football. “This is a historic moment in York Football history, said Robert Wagner, Assistant Principal for Athletics. We have made it to the IHSA Semi-Final the last two years. I am so proud of these young men and our coaches for taking the next step in winning a State Championship! Duke Pride Forever!”
To mark the occasion, the Dukes will parade out of town, departing from York High School (355 W St. Charles Rd. Elmhurst, IL 60126) at approximately 2:30 PM on Saturday in a
spirited caravan led by the Elmhurst Police Department, the team, and their families.
Community members are encouraged to line the campus, wave their green and white, and
cheer the team on as they begin their journey to Normal, Illinois. This caravan, organized by
Friday Night Families, the Football Parent and Alumni Organization, promises to celebrate
town pride and the power of football to unite.
“We’ve watched these young men grow as athletes and as people; when they entered high
school, York had not been to the playoffs in 10 years, and we were coming out of the pandemic,
and now they are going to state. The hard work by these kids has brought our city together in an
extraordinary way,” said Jackie Tamer, a City Clerk of Elmhurst. “This is more than a game—it’s
a moment for Elmhurst to unite and support something bigger than York; these boys represent
our community. When they step on the field, Elmhurst will be behind them.”
A town united by football
This season, the York Dukes’ success has brought families, alums, and fans from across
Elmhurst closer than ever. From Friday night lights to Sunday morning recaps, football has
become the heartbeat of the community. This championship run is not just about the players
and coaches but about the legacy of York High School football and the support of the Elmhurst
community.
“We’re excited to represent York, Elmhurst, and the incredible tradition of Dukes football at the
state level,” said Coach Don Gelsomino. “The support from our families, alumni, and fans has
been unbelievable, and we’ll carry that energy with us on game day.”
“We’ve seen these kids grow up playing football with the Elmhurst Eagles. It’s amazing to see what
they’ve accomplished,” says Elmhurst Eagles Youth Football & Cheer Vice President of
Marketing, Jason Anciulis. “The Eagles have been the feeder program for York since 1964, and
we are beyond proud to see them representing Elmhurst in the State Championship.”
Join the celebration!
Everyone is invited to join the send-off at York High School and cheer for the Dukes as they
embark on this unforgettable journey. Bring your signs, spirit wear, and loudest voices to show
the team what Elmhurst pride is all about! Whether in the caravan or from the stands at Illinois
State University, your support will make all the difference.
Game Details:
● Date: Saturday, November 30
● Time: 7:00 pm
● Location: Illinois State University, Normal, IL
● Opponent: Loyola Academy
Let’s show the state what it means to be a York Duke and celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime
moment in Elmhurst history. Go Dukes!
About Friday Night Families:
Friday Night Families is the Football Parent and Alumni Organization of York High School,
dedicated to supporting the players, coaches, and community through events, fundraisers, and
initiatives that promote school spirit and unity.
Friday, December 20, 2024
