#HSFB PREVIEW (ONT – PEEL) Mount Carmel, Meadowvale prepare Battle of the Block

Our Lady of Mount Carmel (#CFC 37) versus Meadowvale Secondary Falcons

The annual Battle of Block features Our Lady of Mount Carmel Crusaders taking on the Meadowvale Falcons in Week 4

ROPSSAA South rivals Mount Carmel and Meadowvale gear up for the teams’ much-anticipated Battle of the Block matchup.  Over the years, the schools have shared an intense and interesting history considering both schools are only minutes in walking distance from each other.

Both schools share the local elementary feeder schools, and much of the student body attending these schools have grown up and formed friendships with one another.  However, it has not stopped the two local schools from forming a rivalry with each other that has also spilled out into each school’s athletics.  When it comes to football, the competitive fire is only intensified as the neighboring schools anticipates this local fall classic.

Due to the proximity of both schools, it is customary and an honored tradition for the visiting team to walk from their home school to the opposing playing field with their equipment on.

Head Coach of the Meadowvale Falcons Mike Fugler admits this rivalry has not always been easy for the Falcons, as Mount Carmel has taken many of the head-to-head matchups between the two.  “For a long time, it wasn’t much of a rivalry, as Carmel has had our number over the years.  It’s only been in the last few years that they became our measuring stick and a team we wanted to beat so we can show that we have arrived as a competitor in senior football.  Also, we want to produce a level of consistency similar to what Carmel has been able to accomplish.”

Coming into this game, Mount Carmel has won their first two games of the season and will look to extend their winning streak as they prepare for a game that means a great deal to them personally.  “We’re neighbors, we’re friends, it’s a bit personal.  Some of these guys may have gone to elementary school together.  This game is for the bragging rights of North-West Mississauga,” says Head Coach of the Crusaders Jeff Price, as his Crusaders will take the annual march to Meadowvale Secondary.

Fugler knows that his defense will have to be up to the task to make plays against this Carmel offense.  However, Fugler is confident that if his defense can get stops, they have a strong chance of seeing the results they desire.  “This defense is young and inexperienced, and we hope we can get it to the point where we can stop Carmel’s talented offense.”

Aside from the personal rivalry that exists between the two schools, there is much on the line in terms of the playoff picture becoming clearer for both teams.  Mount Carmel is 2-0 and looking to keep pace with Lorne Park and St. Marcellinus.  On the other hand, Meadowvale is aiming to keep their playoff hopes alive with a victory Thursday after starting the season without a win thus far.