Highland’s Strong Win Led by Jace Harris

Highland senior defensive end Jace Harris played a crucial role in securing a victory for his team during the game against Whiting on Friday. Harris, who also serves on the Trojans’ offensive line, showcased his defensive prowess by making a tackle for a loss in the backfield and applying quarterback pressure that resulted in an errant pass.

Reflecting on his performance, Harris stated, “I feel like I was doing really well getting off the ball on defense, closing my gap, making those tackles. I like how my O-line gave it their all, how my D-line gave it their all. It all starts with the line. It all starts in the trenches. It starts with us and ended with us. I’m just trying to do as much as I can for my team.”

Harris’ contribution was instrumental in Highland’s 50-7 victory under interim coach Jimmy McCormack. During his first season at Highland, after transferring from Crete-Monee in Illinois, Harris recorded 54 tackles, including 12 for loss, and made the Class 4A junior all-state team.

Against Whiting, Harris successfully achieved three tackles for loss. Coach Jimmy McCormack praised Harris, saying, “Jace is a great player. He’s an incredible ballplayer for us. Seeing him bounce back after a rough start against Griffith is really nice to see.” Harris transitioned from a backup at Crete-Monee to an all-conference defensive lineman, later taking on a role on the offensive side, which he had not played since middle school. “Coming here felt like a new life. It was a new start,” Harris noted.

Junior quarterback Aaron McCormack recognized Harris’ talents as a vital addition to the team. “Jace is a great athlete. He contributes so much to the program. He’s impactful on both sides of the ball,” Aaron McCormack said.

Freshman wide receiver Jonathon Lee also made his mark by returning the opening kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown, despite initially mishandling and cutting back across the field. Lee caught two passes for 33 yards, notably turning a short reception into a 31-yard gain.

Julian Madrueno, junior quarterback/running back, scored for Whiting with a 76-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, which prevented Highland’s first shutout since 2022. Highland has won all six games against Whiting since the renewed series in 2021.

This game carried special significance for coach Jimmy McCormack, a Morton graduate and experienced assistant. “Honestly, the kids met my expectations. I wanted them to compete for four quarters and wear our opponent down,” he shared. McCormack expressed pride in his team, highlighting their consistent effort and physical play.

Jace Harris summed up his feelings, “It just feels great. I believed in my team, and they believed in me. When we come together, we do great.”