Have you ever thought about what it would be like if ‘College Game Day’ came to a high school football game? A couple of area television producers did just that! And they came up with a locally focused program they believe will generate pre-game excitement.
‘Friday Football Tailgate’, an electrifying, unique new pre-game show dedicated to high school football rivalries and big matchups, is set to kick off its first season this fall in Michigan’s Great Southwesst.
The first show will be live and on-site at St. Joseph High School this Friday, to prep the matchup between the Niles Vikings and the St. Joseph Bears. The show promises viewers an experience that highlights the essence of ‘Friday night lights’ while channeling the energetic spirit reminiscent of College Gameday.
The tailgate will open at 4:30 P.M, with food, games and fun. The show will simulcast to YouTube and Facebook from 5 P.M. to 6 P.M and It will air on the radio on News Talk Sports 94.9 WSJM.
Produced by Little Red Fern Productions and TPC Technologies, Friday Football Tailgate is a one-hour pre-game show that is designed to capture the heart and soul of high school football rivalries, bringing together coaches, athletes, and alumni for a dynamic celebration prior to opening kickoffs.
The spirited production team promises a College Gameday-inspired vibe. The show will combine exclusive interviews, insightful analysis, and a lively pre-game atmosphere that elevates the high school football fan experience.
Ryan Cheevers, owner of Little Red Fern Productions, shares his excitement: “Friday Football Tailgate will bring the authenticity and grassroots spirit of high school football to the forefront. We’re celebrating the communities, the rivalries, and the stories that make high school football so special, and we can’t wait to kick this off on August 30th at St. Joseph when the Bears welcome the Vikings.”
The show’s host is Kacy Standohar, a dynamic sports broadcaster and sideline reporter based in Chicago, IL. She has appeared on FS1, ESPN+, Marquee Sports Network, and WCIU 26, covering a range of sports from BIG EAST college athletics to IHSA football and basketball.
Lead Analyst is Brent Lesniak, a top 50 high school football player in Michigan and an 11-time All-State track star. He holds many rushing records for Dowagiac High School, where he played in 1996 and 1997. Lesniak won a football National Championship at Grand Valley State under Brian Kelly and became an Arena League All-Pro.
Ken Dietz is the show’s Pregame Analyst. Dietz has 38 years of experience as an Athletic
Director, teacher, and coach. He coached in several schools and served as Watervliet’s Athletic Director for 18 years. A Stephenson High alum, Ken founded a successful basketball camp, played college basketball at Olivet, and earned a Masters from Western Michigan.
Niles High School vs. St. Joseph High School Hype Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6R7HuzcdLM
What to Expect on Friday Football Tailgate
Exclusive Interviews: Get up close and personal with high school football coaches, players, and notable guests as they share their insights and anecdotes.
Insightful Analysis: A seasoned production team, with years of experience in sports entertainment, delivers expert analysis, adding depth and context to each matchup.
Lively Pre-game Atmosphere: The Friday Football Tailgate set consists of an RV (courtesy of Elkhart’s Alliance RV), a jumbotron, and a large event stage.
Event Details:
The show will launch from 5 P.M. to 6 P.M. at four high school campuses this fall:
- August 30: Niles High School at St. Joseph High School
- September 13: Portage Central High School at Lakeshore High School
- October 4: Watervliet High School at South Haven High School
- October 18: Buchanan High School at Dowagiac High School
How to Get Involved:
Be a Part of the Live Audience: Join us at each game listed above for an exciting high school tailgate experience. Bring your signs, cheers, and team spirit to be featured on the show.
Sponsorship Opportunities: Elevate your brand by becoming a sponsor. Connect with our dedicated team to explore the various sponsorship levels available. Current sponsors are RealTruck.com, Boss Services, RE/MAX By The Lake, and Alliance RV.
Stay Connected:
Follow Friday Football Tailgate on Facebook or Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses, updates, and exciting announcements.
For questions or more information, contact:
Ryan Cheevers: ryan@littleredfern.com or 310-709-2569
visit www.fridayfootballtailgate.com
Kacy Standohar Friday Football Tailgate anchor
