The most anticipated game of the season: New Trier. The rivalry dates back to the very beginning of ETHS, and every year, players, students, and fans eagerly await the two times the teams face off. Games sell out annually, resulting in some of the loudest gyms you’ll ever experience. Being next-door neighbors with New Trier only adds to the excitement. All the best sports rivalries are between teams that are close together: Red Sox vs. Yankees, Bears vs. Packers, Cubs vs. Cardinals—there’s no shortage of examples. Lucky for us, we have a great one right here at home.
“It’s nothing the coaching staff has to do differently. They know the vibes of Evanston versus New Trier and what it means to both schools,” said boys varsity Head Coach Mike Ellis.
Residents of both Evanston and Wilmette know the magnitude of this game, but the players feel it differently. It’s the game they want to win the most. Emotions are a roller coaster throughout the game—ecstatic when winning, but the polar opposite when losing.
“During the game, emotions are up and down, but right now, I’m just happy to come out of here with a win,” said senior guard Theo Rocca, reflecting on the recent win at New Trier.
Theo will be playing alongside New Trier guard Colby Smith at WashU next year. Usually, learning you’ll be playing with a rival might bring some negative emotions, but not for Theo.
“I was happy when I heard he committed. Even though we’re rivals in high school, he’s my AAU teammate, so we’re good friends. I’ve always loved playing against Colby, and I’ve been playing against him since the feeder days,” Rocca remarked.
The student sections at high school rivalries bring an unmatched energy to the game, and at ETHS, the KitPit is no exception. With loud chants and unwavering support, the KitPit makes their presence felt every rivalry game, making the New Trier game feel like a true showdown.
“We’re so grateful and thankful we have the support of those students,” said Coach Ellis.
Coach Ellis is overjoyed by the popularity of the KitPit and how it’s served his team. The KitPit goes all out for the rivalry games, and in the most recent battle against New Trier, the KitPit was overflowing, with Evanston pride filling the gym in support of their Wildkits.
The games are always intense, and when these two teams clash, anything can happen. The last few seasons have been especially wild.
“In 2015-2016, we were ranked in the top 25 in the nation. That year, we won by one point in overtime against New Trier. Last year, they were ranked in the state, and we were only 20-11 on the season, but we ended up beating them at their place,” said Colin Livatino, KitPit co-founder.
Even when the games seem like they might be a lopsided blowout, both teams always play with a chip on their shoulder.
Kaiden Chatman, who transferred from Niles North this year, has been playing extremely well this season. He got his first taste of the New Trier rivalry on February 1, when the Kits pulled off the 10-point win against the Trevians.
“The rivalry is a lot bigger than I thought it was when I was at Niles North. We had a rivalry with Niles West, but everyone already knew the outcome of that game. Here, it’s usually been back and forth. The guys told me that no one really came to the games last year, but everyone showed up for New Trier, and that is definitely true,” said Chathman.
The Evanston-New Trier rivalry is one of the most storied in the North Shore. For senior guard Ian Peters, this rivalry is personal. Growing up watching his older brother, Blake, face off against New Trier in Beardsley Gym, Ian has always felt the intensity of these games. Now, as a player, he’s determined to carry on the tradition.
“Playing these games brings back memories of watching my brother play, and it’s just really important for us to put on a show for the fans and try to get a win,” said Peters.
The Evanston-New Trier rivalry is more than just a game; it’s a tradition that defines the season. With each clash, the intensity and passion grow, making these matchups unforgettable and solidifying their place as one of the most iconic rivalries in Illinois.
