It's 'Friday night lights' at Monroe high school

CAROLYN GREGOR The Monroe Township High School football team will usher in a new era on the school's new, lighted turf field tomorrow night.

MONROE — The varsity football season at Monroe Township High School has included many changes, but among the most obvious for fans is the new synthetic turf field, along with lighting and a new scoreboard.

The first test for the upgrades will be tomorrow's 7 p.m. home against North Brunswick, under the lights, which have been on the school district's wish list for some time.

First year head coach Chris Beagan is excited about the new chapter in Monroe football.

"This season will begin a new era at Monroe Township High School," he said. "Now that our home games are going to be played on Friday night under the lights, we are excited about starting a new tradition here in town that the whole community can enjoy."

Team officials hope the "new era" will rally the community to come out and support the team.

"We hope to create an experience that can be enjoyed by all of our fans and supporters, both old and new," Beagan said. "We are fortunate to have the opportunity to play in such an awesome facility."

Since community support can be vital to any athletic program, the Falcons hope many residents and students will come out to games at the new field. Beagan noted that the games under the lights will all have "a playoff atmosphere."

"It will be an experience we will keep with us for the rest of our lives," said senior P.J. Dawes.

The players are excited to play at home in prime time, like the NFL and college games they've grown up watching.

"It will elevate everyone's game," added senior D'Meetri Wilson.