By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

One of the most interesting parts of my job as a journalist is watching the impact that multiple student-athletes from the same family can have on a program, school district and community.

I recently realized it once again when I was interviewing Field boys soccer senior standout Wyatt Rahe.

Rahe had been selected as an Athlete of the Week, and he was the third Rahe I have been fortunate to interview and write a feature story about.

Before him, I worked on stories for two of Wyatt’s three older sisters: Savannah and Delilah.

Savannah’s girls soccer feature story published on Portage Sports on Aug. 22, 2023. I did multiple feature stories on Delilah, but her last Athlete of the Week story was for girls basketball and published on Dec. 19, 2023.

I missed a chance to interview Wyatt’s oldest sister McKenna, but I did get the opportunity to spend two years coaching girls travel soccer with her.

These moments are more than just a simple realization for me. They are a special part of my profession that I never take for granted.

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL TROPHIES

For the third straight season, Portage Sports has partnered with RE/MAX Diversity to spotlight a high school football player on Friday night as the Player of the Game.

The previous two seasons, the trophy was custom made by Schindler’s Custom Woodworking.

This season, to introduce something new and fresh, we worked by Riddell for the trophy, which is presented to the Player of the Game following the contest.

I met for coffee with regional Riddell representative Bradley Keck to sort through the details of the project, and we left with an idea in place.

We are excited to present — and unveil — the first trophy this Friday. 

FIELD INTRODUCES ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

After being a discussion piece for multiple years, Field High School has proudly announced the creation of its Athletic Hall of Fame.

In total, 10 will be part of the inaugural induction class, which will be announced on Thursday, Sept. 11, during a special dinner held at the high school.

The class will include six players, two coaches and two “renowned individuals.”
The inductees will also be recognized the following night, Friday, Sept. 12, at the Falcons’ home football game against Woodridge.

PERFECT SUMMER DAY

Last Friday, I spent the morning at Mogadore High School’s Memorial Stadium to do an interview with longtime football coach Matt Adorni.

The story will serve as the cover story for the September issue of our PS magazine that will be mailed out to subscribers next month.

Following our interview and conversation, I noticed three bikes and one scooter leaning against the bricks of the main entrance gate to the stadium.

On the field were their owners.

Four of the town’s youth.

Simply enjoying their best summer day.

They were throwing the football around, goofing around just enjoying the sun and freedom.

I wish I saw more of this simple act of living a summer day when I visit communities for stories.