As tradition is an important part of any program, we have tried hard to continue it and build on the foundation created by those before us. In terms of the Redhawk football philosophy, it is our goal to make an effort to win in such a manner that it brings credit to the school and community, and to promote the individual growth of each team member in a positive way.

Making the effort to win requires commitment on all levels, and it is the goal of the coaching staff to inspire this commitment. Although the ability of each individual player may vary, we believe that if we can motivate each player to give his effort at all times, we will see results.

Because teamwork requires trust in other members of the team, we place our players through rigorous and regimented practices, demanding that all players discipline their own will for the good of the team. This is what is required to make 11 individuals function as one unit.

At Central we don't take days off of practice during the season, and we require that our players spend considerable time each week preparing mentally and physically for the challenge before them.

Because football demands this discipline, we at Central believe that players must exhibit this self-discipline after the play is over as well. As being part of a team requires the surrender of one's ego, we will not tolerate childish displays of ego or anger on the field, and our Athletic Code creates serious consequences for bad behavior off the field as well.

To us football is serious business. We believe the mental toughness and self-discipline players learn here will carry over into whatever these young men do in their lives, and it is because of this that we require that everyone involved in our football program acts with integrity and honesty. Because football is a high-profile sport that can have an impact on the image of a school, we make it our goal to bring credit to our school and community.

Football is a complicated game and we require hard work and study from our players. We treat each player with dignity and respect, and we make them aware that all members of the team contribute to its success. The rewards of their efforts are different for each individual. For players blessed with tremendous athletic ability, perhaps the reward is to live up to his potential and be named all-conference.

For others their hard work may earn them a spot on one of our special teams where they have the opportunity to make that jarring block, or tackle they long for. But regardless of natural ability, everyone on the team shares in that indescribable feeling that comes with victory.

Having nearly 90 players, we operate on a two-platoon system and try to play as many players as possible, both of which help improve morale and promote participation.

Through their participation on the NCHS Redhawks, players come to learn that they are not only part of a team, but also part of a tradition. That tradition unites us and leads to friendships and memories that these young men will treasure throughout their lives.

Perhaps the most important and overlooked part of the program is the tradition of community support the Redhawks have received throughout the years. NCUSD 203 is an outstanding school district, which has given birth to two of the top football programs in the state. Tom Paulsen, the principal at NCHS, and Marty Bee, the athletic director, always have been very supportive and are important figures in our success.

Our football parents, Booster Club members, and other people in our community have helped our program with intangibles such as pregame meals, team picnics and other activities that promote team unity. Their help is indispensable.

Our upcoming meeting with Naperville North is always an excellent game, which generates a lot enthusiasm on both sides of town. I believe this game helps bring our community together in a positive way and it is something I am proud and honored to have a chance to participate in.