The rivalry between Roosevelt and Jefferson isn’t just about sports; it’s about pride, community, and history. Both schools are staples of North Portland, just a few miles apart, and that closeness only fuels the fire. It’s a lot like the Cleveland vs. Franklin rivalry, built on proximity and neighborhood pride. Our rivalry began around the time both schools were established. Jefferson was overcrowded, so its boundaries changed, and a number of its students were sent to Roosevelt. Many athletes from Jefferson and Roosevelt grew up together and hung out outside of school, but in school, school pride was important to them. The rivalry still stems today, but has also shifted a bit to include Grant High School, but not as strongly as the Jefferson rivalry
Coach Willie Williams, Roosevelt’s Athletic Director, puts it simply, “We could be 0-7 going into the Jefferson game, and if we win that one, it feels like a championship. For the players and the surrounding community.” Roosevelt’s head coach of football, Ryan McCants, says the energy is unmatched, “When the Jefferson game comes around, it’s the most electric game of the season. No other game has that kind of atmosphere; it means the most to this community.”
For some of these kids, they grew up playing together in the same neighborhoods, and when they eventually suit up for opposing teams, they carry those bonds and that competitive fire onto the field. The stakes? Bragging rights for an entire year.
This is what Senior O’siah Banks, Corner and Wide Receiver for the football team, has to say on the rivalry, “I see it as the biggest game since I know them personally. I get emotional before the game and have a lot on my mind, and I very much enjoy the rivalry. I like the competition.”
Senior Geovoney Burks, Linebacker for the football team, says, “I like the rivalry, it brings a lot of energy to the game. It really motivates me and feels like a must-win game.”
Caelan Riley, senior, Tight End and Defensive End for the football team, says, “Before the game, there’s a lot of tension and the nerves are up, but there’s a lot to look forward to and I’m very confident in the team.”
The rivalry is really just a friendly one, given our proximity to each other, and there is no bad blood between the schools. It may mean a lot to the community, but to the players, it’s a fun game to play, and they want to win like every other game. This year’s game was on October 9th at Jefferson, and Roosevelt won 28-14.
