Ryan Field hosts record high school football game amid slur investigation

A high school football rivalry game between New Trier and Evanston Township High School, held at the newly opened Ryan Field at Northwestern University, has drawn both record crowds and disciplinary investigations.

Approximately 27,000 fans attended the matchup, which is believed to be the largest regular-season high school football crowd in Illinois history. New Trier defeated Evanston Township 42-28.

Following the event, administrators from both school districts launched a joint investigation into reports of racist and homophobic slurs directed at members of the Evanston marching band. In a joint statement, superintendents emphasized that the event should have been a celebration of student talent and tradition, stating that no student should feel their dignity or belonging has been demeaned.