The Sparta Township Historical Commission has announced the selection of the 1953 Sparta High School football team to serve as grand marshals of the 2017 Town and Country parade. Although these “gridders” played for SHS almost 64 years ago, many avid local fans have vivid memories of their exploits which ended with an unblemished season of
9-0. The 53-54 yearbook summed up a remarkable season as follows:
“The 1953 football team combined speed, skill, student backing, and an undaunted will to win and the end result was one of the finest football seasons in Sparta High School history.
Bolted by thirteen seniors, the Spartans overcame a big weight deficit and fought their way to three outstanding honors. Those honors being, the Kenowa League Championship, a nine game undefeated season, and being rated second only to Mt. Pleasant in the A.P. State ratings.
Under the excellent coaching of head mentor Norm Harris and assistant coach Wes Perrin, the “gridders” were equally strong on offense and defense as they scored 275 points while holding their opponents to only 32 points.
The defense spearheaded by the fine work of team captain Dale Trimble, attributed most of their success to team play and aggressiveness. Not one team made over seven points against us during the season.”
An amazing statistic is that these record setting Spartans notched more touchdowns (38) than their opponents scored points (32). All-state running back Glenn Burgett and fullback Earl Watkins both averaged 10 yards per carry. One of the many highlights was their stunning 60 -7 defeat of a favored Rockford team. Team members, cheerleaders, and managers should be proud of their accomplishments. Congratulations from the Sparta Township Historical Commission and the Sparta Town & Country Days Committee!
