In 1946 the state of Louisiana’s most heated high school rivalry between public schools began. Now, almost 70 years later, the rivalry has flourished into week-long events, practical jokes and  extends beyond the two high schools. St. Charles Parish is divided by two things: the Mississippi River and Destrehan-Hahnville rivalry week. The rivalry spills into the government buildings such as the courthouse and into local business.You’ll see everyone participating in the rivalry; from future wildcats and tigers to alumni from the past. You will even see fans cheering on that never laid a foot inside either of the two schools as a student. This rivalry is contagious and has everyone picking a side.

Wildest Game

Year: 2001

Score: 28-27 Destrehan

Both teams were undefeated at this point in the season. The second half of that 2001 matchup proved to be the only one that mattered. Destrehan came back from two deficits in the second half. The most dangerous river parish combo, Daniel Luquet and Fred Smith, proved to be a quick way to get points on the board. Three second half touchdowns were caught by Smith; one was a 75 yard catch and run, score two was a 30 yard feat of athleticism catch and score number three was an 80 yard game winner with less than two minutes left in the game. Hahnville had no answer for the come-behind-win. Former Hahnville Coach Lou Valdin said Fred Smith was a nightmare to cover all four years. Coach ran drills in practice the week before the game to help combat smith. Coach Valdin even had a play in his playbook named “the Freddie”.

Wildest Game Honorable Mentions

1. Destrehan’s double overtime 31-24 win in 2007
2. Hahnville’s overtime 44-47 win in 2012 with the state playoffs on the line

Another Year Another Game

Fast forward to 2015, the Wildcats and Tigers are continuing the rivalry on Friday night at Hahnville High School in front of an expected sold-out crowd. A game with Division I talent and potential NFL players spectacled all over the field on both sides, you never know if this might be the next wild game that will be remembered 14 years later. What is known; the stands(and temporary stands brought in for this event) will be packed with roaring fans, the air will be filled with the aroma of Jambalaya and both teams will be ready to play.

You can watch and get more information about the game by visiting www.battleontheriver.com.