On Friday, October 20, Knights flooded The Hill while dressed up as cowgirls and cowboys. The bleachers were packed full of people (and for a good reason, too). The Cabell Midland Football Team was battling the Highlanders for the Shield. The “Battle for The Shield” is a tradition where CMHS plays HHS, and whoever wins gets the (physical) shield.
Every year this is a huge game for both teams. Not only do students and staff show, but the whole community shows up to watch. Cabell Midland and Huntington are a classic case of hometown rivals and have been for years.
Junior football player Elijah Pratt described the relationship between Cabell Midland and Huntington high as a constant competition. During an interview, Pratt said, “…both sides will not quit until someone has the shield.”
Huntington High won the battle in 2021 and 2022. As a result, the knights worked extra hard to bring the shield back to the castle.
Cabell Midland demolished the Huntington Highlanders; the halftime score was 24-7. The final score was 31-21.
What made Cabell Midland win the “Battle for The Shield?” While some may say pure luck, others think differently. According to Pratt, “We felt a loss the week prior, and we knew we had to regroup, and get it done. And again, we were hungry and just wanted it more than them.”
Through sweat, tears, and rain the shield was finally back home.
Victoria Lewis • Nov 25, 2023 at 2:39 pm
Katie, I wanted to express my admiration for your article “The Battle for The Shield: Midland vs. Huntington.” It was truly captivating and incredibly engaging. I really enjoyed reading it and couldn’t help but appreciate your exceptional talent as a writer. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to read more of your articles, as I am certain it will be equally as impressive.