Bluebird football has returned to Highlands for the 2024-2025 season. The Birds finished 12-2 last year, losing to Cooper in the State Semifinals. Compared to previous years, the Birds competed at a high level all year but fell just short of their goal.  

When asked about last year’s football season, Tommy Ferring (12) said, “I think it was a well-organized season and I thought we executed on a lot of games. I also think we had a good season, we played hard and I think that’s really all that matters.” 

Despite losing 26 seniors, including starting quarterback Brody Benke and star running back Cam Giesler, Head Coach Bob Sphire has high hopes for his team this year. Throughout the preseason, Sphire has been drilling one thing into the player’s heads, “Stay in the moment and take it week to week.” As the season continues, the Birds will focus on their training each day and make the progress needed for the game on Friday. 

Highlands started the year with a home scrimmage against Ryle on August 13th, followed by the Blue-White scrimmage on the 16th. This scrimmage allowed the players to gain confidence and experience before the start of the regular season. The Birds performed well in both these games and showed what they are capable of accomplishing this season.

The Bluebirds have another tough schedule this year but still have their sights set on the state final. Torin Bryant (12) shares his expectations for his senior season at Highlands, “Expectation is always to win a state championship.” The Birds seek their 24th state title this season. 

The Bluebirds will face the Cooper Jaguars as their first district game of the season and will hopefully get their first major win. Coach Sphire said, “I don’t think we need to dance around it, Cooper is the biggest game on our schedule” As the Birds prepare for this game they keep their other goals in mind. The Birds hope to have a strong start to their regular season with the opener against Lexington Catholic on August 23rd.