It’s Homecoming (without the parade) as the LHS Tigers host the Little Miami Panthers.

 By Chuck Gibson

 LOVELAND, OH (September 18, 2020) – There may not be a traditional LHS Homecoming parade tonight, but Loveland-Symmes Fire Department Chief Otto Huber is still the honorable Grand Marshall for the festivities.

Loveland-Symmes Fired Department Chief Otto Huber (FILE)

Chief Huber will be flown in on a helicopter to deliver the “Game Ball” in a pre-game ceremony set for approximately 6:45 p.m. – about 15 minutes before kick-off. Introduction of the Tiger players will also include a special Harley-Davison Motorcycle escort. The team arrived at the Stadium via the LSFD firetruck ride from Historic Downtown Loveland to the LHS campus.

 The ECC rival Tigers and Panthers are both winless coming into the game at 0-2. The common opponent faced by both teams in their first two games of the season is Turpin. Loveland took a 30-0 loss in the home opener against the Spartans from Turpin High School. The Panthers were beaten by the Spartans last Friday, 44-8. Something has to give tonight.

Little Miami Panther Football found its way into the spotlight of controversy this week when two players were initially suspended for carrying “Thin Blue Lin” and “Red Line” flags onto the field during introductions. Their show of support for police and firefighters had not been approved and was met with the suspension of the two players involved. Public outcry in support of the two boys and their support of police and fire was loud enough and strong enough to evoke a reversal by school administrators who lifted the suspensions. Both players are eligible to participate in the game tonnight. 

While there was no official statement from Loveland City School District on the matter, School Superintendent, Dr. Amy Crouse did assure this reporter Loveland Schools maintains a “wonderful relationship with our police and fire department” pointing to the fact LSFD Chief Huber is delivering the game ball as Grand Marshall for Homecoming festivities tonight. There also is a safety plan in place

Watch for the full game story and more Tiger Tracks here in SPORTS on Loveland Beacon this weekend. 

Check http://www.lovelandtigers.org for more about Loveland High School Athletics

Check http://www.eccsports.com for results, standings, and more.