(Greensburg, IN) — South Decatur and North Decatur will open the 2026 high school football season Friday night with their traditional county rivalry, but the evening will carry significance well beyond the scoreboard.
The Cougars will host the Chargers at South Decatur High School, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m.
Before the game, the two schools will come together to honor the memory of Jake Rader, the late assistant principal at South Decatur Elementary School.
Rader was killed in a motorcycle accident June 5. He will be remembered in the school’s ceremony as a beloved member of the South Decatur Elementary community who made a lasting impact on students and staff.
Pregame tribute planned
The memorial ceremony is scheduled to begin at approximately 6:40 p.m.
Students, staff members, Rader’s family, both football teams, cheerleaders and coaches will be invited to gather at midfield before the game. North Decatur’s football program is also scheduled to present “The Rope” to South Decatur in Rader’s honor.
A South Decatur Elementary fourth-grade student is scheduled to speak before those in attendance observe a moment of silence.
During the game, cheerleaders from both schools will accept donations in Rader’s memory. The money will be used toward establishing a walking path and scholarship bearing his name.
The South Decatur High School band will perform the national anthem at approximately 6:55 p.m., with kickoff to follow at 7.
Game-day information
Tickets are $7 and may be purchased in physical or digital form. Spectators may enter from the north or east ends of the facility, while the visitor section is located on the west side of the field.
The Decatur County Greensburg Marching Band is scheduled to perform at halftime. Food vendors are also expected to be on site, including The Ice Box Shaved Ice, Meals on Wheels, Lil Dutch Mini Donuts and a Music Boosters boba tea stand.
Friday’s game marks the season opener for both South Decatur and North Decatur.
