There were several things about Friday night's home opener football game that made it extra-special. For starters, former head Coach Bill Monken was honored before the game. He began his coaching career at CHS in 1973 until he retired from coaching in 1999. During his time coaching at Charleston High School, he led his team to win the Apollo Conference championship in 1996, and he was later inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches' Association Hall of Fame.

(Photo credit: Greg A. Cooper/EIU Journalism)

Another thing that made this game memorable was Coach Halsey's return as Head Football Coach. Brian Halsey brings a level of enthusiasm that just simply cannot be matched. His love for the game and for the kids is unmistakable and extremely contagious. Brian Halsey previously coached the Trojans from 2000-2014. During that time, his teams won the Apollo Conference 5 times and qualified for the state playoffs 7 times. Furthermore, his 2007 team reached the Elite Eight and his 2011 team made it all the way to the Final Four. Now, a decade later, he is back and more ready than ever to lead the Trojans to another winning season.

(Photo credit: Greg A. Cooper/EIU Journalism)

Last but not least, Friday night's game was definitely exciting due to the big win over Herscher. From start to finish, you could just feel the energy in the air as the Trojans dominated the Tigers. The student section decked out in neon and the fireworks for each CHS touchdown were added bonuses to help keep everyone amped up. The game ended with the CHS players ringing the bell for a big Trojan WIN and an even bigger storm rolling in.

(Photo credit: Greg A. Cooper/EIU Journalism)

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