This weekend, as the Rams travel to Brownstown for Round 2 of the Sectional, two seniors will be on the sidelines to help the team have a successful game.

Seniors Libby Newkirk and Maddie Vernon have been football managers on the sidelines, making sure the Rams can perform at their best. The football managers are responsible for getting everything ready for games and practices. There is a lot of preparation leading up to games, such as doing laundry, filling up water, and restocking medkits.

“We have to be prepared whether it’s raining or if it’s cold outside,” said Newkirk.

Newkirk has been managing for five years. She comes from a family that is very involved in sports, and her mom also managed when she was in school.

Vernon started managing her sophomore year and wanted to be with Newkirk.

“I have learned that being a manager means there is a lot of preparation before a game,” said Vernon.

There are numerous challenges associated with preparing for games and practices. In practice, the team of managers ensures everything is prepared for the week and the waters are filled up. In games, managers carry the water and are prepared for anything that the boys need.

Newkirk and Vernon will both miss being involved.

“I will miss all of the coaches and Ian (Bostock) giving me a hard time, and I’ll miss just being a part of the program,” said Newkirk.

Vernon feels similar to Newkirk.

“I will miss the environment and being around all the managers,” said Vernon.

At this time, after high school, Newkirk plans to pursue a career in education, and Vernon plans to pursue a career in physical therapy.