RATHDRUM, Idaho — The Lakeland Hawks will take the field against rival Timberlake Friday night, but the undefeated football team has their sights set on a prize much bigger than a victory.
Lakeland High School is competing for a $1 million grand prize in T-Mobile’s Friday Night 5G Lights competition, which would fund a complete makeover of the school’s stadium and athletic facilities.
Out of 2,000 schools that applied nationwide, Lakeland is one of just 25 finalists in the month-long competition. The school district has already secured $30,000 as a finalist, with that check being presented during tonight’s T-Mobile Pink Out game.
“Thankful for this opportunity. And I think that our community and the kids can come together and try to win it,” said Jace Taylor, a Lakeland High School football player.
For the Hawks, the potential stadium upgrade represents more than just new facilities. The current field shows its age, with some infrastructure dating back decades.
“My dad actually helped lay the grass that we used today down in like, the 90s. So it’s definitely old, but just getting an upgrade would be so big,” Taylor said.
The competition holds special significance for the tight-knit school community of just over 800 students.
“It’s a super cool opportunity for the school and the community. I think it really represents who we are and how much pride we have in our athletics, our education and our community in general,” said Hunter Avriett, another Lakeland football player.
Currently sitting in fourth place, Lakeland needs community support to climb to the top spot. Residents can vote once per day through October 24 by clicking this link.
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