With the Boylan Catholic Titans (11-0) set to face the Sycamore Spartans (10-1) in the IHSA Class 5A boys’ varsity football quarterfinal in Rockford this Saturday, November 16, State Representatives Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford) and Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) are using the matchup as the basis for a friendly wager to benefit local families in need this Thanksgiving season while rooting for their respective hometown team. Sosnowski and Keicher have agreed to match up to $500 in donations to the Rockford Rescue Mission should the Boylan Catholic Titans advance; or the Sycamore Food Pantry should the Sycamore Spartans prevail.
In addition to their own individual commitment, both Representatives are encouraging residents of their communities to participate by donating to a local food pantry of their choice this Thanksgiving season, regardless of which team advances on Saturday.
“School athletics bring families and communities together,” Rep. Sosnowski said. “Jeff and I decided that the matchup between Boylan and Sycamore is a terrific way for us to support two of the many outstanding local food pantries that serve families in northern Illinois. Go Titans!”
“Sycamore has had a tremendous season and we’re exceptionally proud of them,” Rep. Keicher said. “Joe and I are both big supporters of our local food pantries, and this game is one way we’re helping to give back while encouraging others to do the same. Go Spartans!”
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara and Sycamore Mayor Curt Lang are also getting into the competition. Both mayors have agreed that the “loser” will wear the winning team’s jersey in a post on social media congratulating the victorious team and their city.
Rep. Sosnowski serves the 69th District, which includes portions of Winnebago and Boone counties.
Rep. Keicher serves the 70th District, which includes most of DeKalb County as well as portions of Boone and Kane counties.