For over a century, the Gardiner Tigers and the Cony Rams have clashed on the gridiron, creating one of the most storied rivalries in high school football history. As part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this year’s matchup promises to be an epic showdown as these two titans collide once again.

The series between these two schools began in 1892, and since then, they have met a staggering 145 times. The Cony Rams currently hold the upper hand, leading the all-time series 77-58-10. However, the Gardiner Tigers are determined to narrow the gap and reclaim their glory.

“The Gardiner vs. Cony rivalry is the epitome of what the Great American Rivalry Series stands for. The passion, history, and intensity of this matchup are unmatched,” says Rick Ford, founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series. “Every year, the Gardiner Tigers and the Cony Rams deliver a game that showcases the heart and soul of high school football.”

This game will be a battle of the mascots, as the Tigers seek to pounce on the Rams’ territory. With the last meeting ending in a 27-12 victory for Cony, the Tigers are eager for redemption and will bring their A-game to Fuller Field.

Adding to the excitement, the coveted trophy, “The Boot,” awaits the victor. This symbolic prize embodies the fierce competition and longstanding history between these two schools. Both teams know that hoisting “The Boot” is not just a display of triumph but a testament to their dedication and commitment.

With an expected crowd size of 2,500 fans, the atmosphere at Fuller Field will be electric. Emotions will run high as generations of students, alumni, and community members come together to witness the continuation of this legendary rivalry.

Gardiner vs. Cony, the Battle for “The Boot” in the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, promises to be a clash for the ages. Strap in, folks. We know Friday nights, and this one is sure to be one for the history books.

MVP

Parker Sergent
Cony

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Parker Sergent

Cony

Parker is a three-sport stand-out athlete and currently top 10 in his class, Parker has earned high honors in every semester of his HS career. A person of high character, the Cony community is proud of Parker's accomplishments. Parker’s plans are to attend college and continue his basketball career.
Cody Dingwell

Gardiner

Cody is a model student both in the classroom and on the gridiron. A member of the first team all-KVAC in Lacrosse, Cody maintained an impressive GPA during his academic career while participating in many extra-curricular activities including NHS and Varsity Club. As an established receiver on the varsity squad, Cody is an invaluable teammate. After graduating, he plans to pursue a higher education at Husson University to study environmental law and play lacrosse.

GAME SUMMARY

Cony High School's football team defeated Gardiner High School 28-14 in the Annual Battle for the Boot on Friday night. Cony dominated the first quarter of the game by scoring the first three touchdowns of the game. Gardiner made a 15-yard touchdown pass to score the first touchdown in the second quarter with the score remaining 21- 7 at halftime. In the second half Gardiner gets a 15-yard touchdown to bring them within one score, 21-14. It was at this point that Cony's defense became dominant for the rest of the second half, keeping Gardiner off the scoreboard and allowing their offense to score one more touchdown to seal the victory. The Annual Battle for the Boot is a rivalry game between the two high schools, and it is one of the most anticipated games of the year in the area. This year's game was no exception, with a large crowd of fans from both schools on hand to cheer on their teams. Prior to the game Seniors Parker Sergent of Cony and Cody Dingwell from Gardiner were presented The Great American Rivalry Series Scholar Athlete award by the United States Marine Corp. for their leadership on and off the field. Congratulations to the Cony High School football team on their victory!