Early in the morning Friday, Oct. 22 a large blue spray painted “M” with the standing “7-2,” which will be the record of the varsity football team if they defeat Lafayette Friday night, was discovered on the Lancer’s football field.

“I felt really disrespected,” Lafayette corner Al Nesbitt, senior, said. “[Now] I’m expecting a great game and we’re ready to get down and nasty.”

The Messenger contacted Lafayette administrators several times throughout the day Friday but they could not be reached.

Principal Greg Mathison said there will be significant disciplinary action at MHS against the students responsible and possible legal action taken for vandalism and trespassing.

“We do so many great things with great students and it’s unfortunate that actions from few students can make our school be seen in a poor light,” Mathison said.

Activities Director Mark Linneman said this has been an act of taking school spirit too far and the focus should be on the game itself.

“Although I do encourage spirit, giving Lafayette added motivation might not be the best idea,” Stang Gang President Caleb Bobo, sophomore, said. “Not to mention, it’s vandalism and makes MHS look rude and a little classless.”

Running back Ryan Schaefer, senior, also said the act was disrespectful.

“I think it’s pretty disrespectful but it will make a better game,” Schaefer said.  “If it happened to us, we’d be just as competitive. It’s heightening the rivalry.”

MHS will take on Lafayette at 7 p.m. in the second week of Districts at Lafayette.

Additional information provided by Mitch Finnegan, Jennise Jones and Alex Martins, page designers