A Brief History about your Beloved Lincoln-Way Patriots
The LINCOLN-WAY PATRIOTS is a not-for-profit adult Semi-Pro Football organization based in the Lincoln-Way Community. The Patriots are part of the Mid-States Football League, one of the most respected and prestigious Semi –Professional Football Leagues in the country. Our mission is to help provide opportunities for men to play and coach football while becoming better adults. We are committed to helping to improve the Lincoln-Way area and provide affordable family entertainment. The Patriots name was decided for two reasons. The New Lenox area is known as the “Home of the Proud American” so “Patriots” seemed to be a good fit. Also, an Offensive Lineman, Jacob Lowell, was killed while serving his country in Afghanistan in 2007 and the team wanted to remember him in a special way. His jersey number 54 has been retired in his honor.The Patriots first year was 2009 when Head Coach, Steve Strimel, Sr. of New Lenox and General Manager, John Busch, of Frankfort, recruited coaches and staff with several years of experience. In 2009 this first year football organization posted a winning record (8-0) and made it to the League Championship Game. This is the first time that a first year team accomplished this goal. Their overall record was 11-2. Also the Lincoln-Way Patriots were rated 9th in the Midwest Region in one of the national polls published by National Football Events.This year is going to be a challenging one for the Patriots as the League change up the Conferences with the addition of two new teams that brought more competition and raised the level of talent in the Mid States Football League. The Patriots have signed on more local talented players to keep up with the competition and begin their quest for the 2010 Mid States League Champions.The Patriots are still accepting players that are interested in trying out for the team. Volunteers are always welcome to help our staff in areas of media, ball boys, chain crew, ticket sellers, sponsors, and others. For more information, please visit our web site at www.lincolnwaypatriots.org or call Steve at 815-600-2592 or Cheri at 630-918-5743.