By Marcelino Barrell & Marsalis Clark, Clarion Staff Reporters
The Big Cat Classic, a huge rivalry game between Kennedy and McClatchy that sells over 1,500 tickets per year, is set to be moved from Hughes Stadium to Kennedy High School due to an insufficient security presence for the event. Some have cited that the recent death of a Sacramento City College athlete at Hughes also contributed to the need for a change.
The Rosemont High School field was also considered; however, after a meeting between Kennedy Principal Reginald Brown, head coach Dante Bush, and campus security, the game was officially set at Kennedy Stadium.
Because this was set to be a McClatchy home game, the Lions will be on the home side, while the Cougars will be on the visiting side.
This last-minute move shocked the Kennedy community.
“It sucks because this is our home field and being moved to the visitors side is offensive and disrespectful. The bright side about this is that we still get to play the game.” says senior David Sorto Funes.
“It is good and bad on both sides because Kennedy is not the home team. But it will put more pressure on McClatchy because they are still at our stadium that is part of Kennedy’s community,” says Kennedy running back, senior Marsalis Clark.
“I am excited,” says freshman Damien Bresci.
Adds senior Bobby Jones: “Despite the venue change, I think that the game will still be a hit.”
Tonight's game starts at 5:00 PM (JV) and 7:00 PM (V).