As another successful football season at Merrillville High School comes to a close, recognizing the team’s methods is a must. Though the skills of the players are always in the spotlight, the football managers are who help this success come into fruition.

Seniors Nina Marshall and Marley Anderson have been managing the football team since their sophomore year, while Senior Olivia Griffin is managing for the first time this year.

“This is my only year being a manager, so I thought it would be something cool trying something different for my senior year,” Griffin said.

Many things have drawn the girls into becoming managers for the football team. Anderson sees her time as a manager to be beneficial to her future.

“I love being on the sidelines to see the action up close, and it helps me learn more about football because it’s something I want to do in college as well,” Anderson said.

Anderson wants to minor in sports medicine and be a football manager while she is in college. 

The girls’ jobs vary between games, but they mainly aid with the team’s uniforms.

“So the coaches, after practice or after games, they wash the uniform material, and we just fold them and put them away. We pass out the jerseys for the freshman game nights, and for the varsity games too,” Griffin said.

Anderson also flies the drone in order to film the game.

“It’s not hard. When you first learn, it’s a little difficult, but you’ll adjust to it quickly. It’s not bad,” Anderson said.

The managers sometimes face some challenges whilst on the sidelines.

“My least favorite part is filming when it’s cold outside, because we film outside, so probably filming when it’s wintertime,” Marshall said.

Despite this, the girls still have fun and enjoy their time as football managers.

“My favorite part is really being around the other managers. Those are my homegirls; I love them so much. They make it fun,” Griffin said.