Longtime Rivals Southeast and Manatee Set to Clash Under Friday Night Lights
Bradenton, FL — The much-anticipated high school football rivalry between Southeast High School and Manatee High School will take center stage once again this Friday, August 30th, at Hawkins Stadium. With a 7:30 PM kickoff and gates opening at 6:30 PM, the showdown promises to be a thrilling chapter in the storied history between these two Manatee County powerhouses.
The buzz surrounding this year's matchup was reignited during a special meeting of Bradenton Kiwanis on Tuesday, August 27th. Athletic directors Matt Kitchie of Southeast High and Matt Bowling of Manatee High led the charge, rallying the community in anticipation of what has become one of the most intense rivalries in the county. The meeting highlighted the deep-rooted competitive spirit that has long defined these two schools.
Kitchie emphasized the importance of athletics for today’s youth by capitalizing on tradition, pride, and the communities that the teams represent.
Bowling echoed Kitchie's sentiments, emphasizing the significance of community and team. He praised the coaches for teaching not just players on the field, but being role models for our youth. He encouraged everyone to come out and support the teams as the players have been working hard on the field and off.
The rivalry between Southeast and Manatee dates back decades, with both schools boasting rich football traditions and multiple state championships. Each year, the game draws large crowds, creating an electric atmosphere in the stadium. The players, coaches, and fans all know what's at stake, and the intensity of the matchup is palpable from the opening whistle.
As game day approaches, both teams have been fine-tuning their strategies and preparing for the battle ahead. Southeast will look to capitalize on its dynamic offense, while Manatee plans to leverage its stout defense to stymie its rival's attack. With both teams coming off strong performances in their early-season games, Friday night's clash is expected to be a closely contested affair.
The Southeast-Manatee rivalry has always been more than just a game. It's a celebration of community spirit, school pride, and the enduring legacy of high school football in Manatee County. This Friday, fans from both sides will come together at Hawkins Stadium to witness another unforgettable chapter in this historic rivalry.
Be sure to arrive early, as a large crowd is expected, and the gates will open at 6:30 PM. Whether you're a die-hard supporter of the Seminoles or the Hurricanes, this is a game you won't want to miss. The stage is set for a Friday night showdown that will be talked about for years to come.