It was a history-making night for Manchester Township High School on Friday, September 7, 2007, when the community came out in force for the school’s first Friday Night Lights football game, against Wall Twp. High School. Cars overflowed the parking lots to line both sides of Colonial Drive. The limited bleacher space filled up well before game time and fans stood around the fence all the way to the end zones on the home side. The overwhelming turnout was a testament to the community’s support of the MTHS Booster Club’s Light Up Manchester fundraising campaign, which paid for the new state of the art lighting installation.

In a brief pre-game ceremony, Athletic Director Keith Lister thanked donors and presented Light Up Manchester organizer Mike Leppert with a game ball. Leppert addressed the crowd, telling them that the evening was all about them as he directed them to give themselves a round of applause for their support. Leppert, whose son plays football for Manchester, was the driving force behind Light Up Manchester. His son suffers from a rare disease that causes an allergic reaction to sunlight. He was able to play for the first time at home without the need to wear special clothing and equipment to cover his face, arms, neck and legs.

Lister was pleased with the huge turnout for the evening and said he hoped it showed the many sponsors how much their contributions are appreciated. “The community rallied and came out with a lot of excitement,” said Lister. “Regardless of the outcome of the game (Manchester lost to Wall 21-0), I think the community felt like winners. It was an event that culminated an effort that so many people contributed to, and it was truly outstanding.”

A dedication plaque, which will be permanently mounted on the first light pole near the field entrance, was on display. Under the date, September 7, 2007, it reads, “The Manchester Township Board of Education recognizes the High School Booster Club and all those who donated to ‘Light Up Manchester’. Special recognition is given to Nestle Waters Inc., Musco Lighting, and Lucas Electric, without whom these lights would not be possible. This gift to our school community stands as a testament to the effort and contribution of all those involved. On this inaugural date for games played under these lights, we say ‘Thank You’.”

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