The stakes just keep getting higher and higher for the football programs at Manteca and Oakdale high schools.
On Friday, Levi’s Stadium announced it had rescheduled and expanded the format for the “Friday Night Lights” showcase in light of issues with the playing surface at the $1.2 billion dollar complex.
Instead of facing Wilcox (Santa Clara) at the 49ers’ new Santa Clara home this Friday, the Buffaloes will take on their Valley Oak League nemesis on Saturday, Oct. 11, in a matchup that is sure to have league title implications.
The game will be part of two doubleheaders played at Levi’s Stadium on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10-11.
The gamesmanship between the VOL’s oldest schools has already begun with one trying to “freeze” out the other.
On Friday, video captured members of the Manteca coaching staff answering the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge levied on them by the Mustangs.
Offensive coordinator Neil MacDannald, lines coach Joe Eavenson, defensive coordinator Rick James joined Reis outside Guss Schmeidt Field, where the Buffaloes’ brass received the proverbial Gatorade shower.
“This is coach Reis from Manteca High School. We accept coach Merzon’s challenge. ... Go Buffs!”
In the spirit of the viral movement, Reis challenged Weston Ranch coach Seth Davis and his staff.
Davis, offensive coordinator Roman Penirian and assistant coach Dustin Allen played for Reis at Manteca High.
BUS STILL ROLLING
The date may have changed, but Block M Alumni coordinator Keith Jackson says the plan to follow Manteca High to Levi’s Stadium remains unfazed.
The buses that were chartered for Friday afternoon’s ill-fated season-opener against Wilcox has been rescheduled for Oct. 11. “Everything that would have happened on Friday will happen on that Saturday (Oct. 11),” Jackson said.
There are openings on the two buses, Jackson said.
If the game kicks off at noon, as coach Reis had indicated, the buses will leave Manteca at 8 a.m.
The Block M Alumni club will host a tailgate in the parking lot from 10 to 11 a.m. before heading into the stadium. There are two ticket packages available through the Block M Alumni club – the luxury suit package ($80) and general admission ($60).
If you’d like more information, contact Jackson at hankaljackson@comcast.net or 209.823.4456.
