WEST BEND, Wis. — Friday night football is extra important this year for the West Bend West High School community because the Spartans are 3-0 for the first time in 19 years.

The coach, athletes and fans spoke before Friday's game against Slinger High School and said it is special to be part of the West Bend community as the team works to improve its record.

"It's super exciting, and we really love it!" middle linebacker Sean McElroy said. "The crowd is hype, the band is there, and the crowd is packed, so it's super special!"

McElroy said it hasn't always been this way.

"I feel like the aspect of putting the work in and getting to it just wasn't really there," McElroy said. "Coach Ripp really implemented getting in that work in the off-season."

Ahead of Friday night's game against Sli

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