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Doherty: Healthy aging -- including a sharper mind -- can be helped by exercise

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 10:51 GMT by The Times of Northwest Indiana
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Northwest Indiana’s High‑School Runners Lead the Pack: A Deep Dive into the Season‑Defining Performance of the South Shore Panthers

In the fall of 2023, the South Shore Panthers of Gary, Indiana, captured the hearts of a community that has long celebrated high‑school football as a cornerstone of local identity. The Panthers’ thrilling 31‑7 victory over the Lakeview Spartans on Saturday at Gary South Shore Community College’s field marked the beginning of a season that would see the team dominate the Northwest Indiana High‑School Football League (NIHSL) and set a new record for the most consecutive wins in the program’s history. The story behind the win—and the season that followed—offers a compelling narrative about perseverance, community support, and the next generation of football talent.

The Game That Started It All

The Panthers arrived at their home game with a 6‑0 record and a clear focus: to prove that their new offensive scheme—centered around a hybrid spread‑run offense—was a force to be reckoned with. Head Coach Dave “Ripper” Riley, who has led the team for six seasons, had worked closely with his offensive coordinator, assistant coach Marissa "Miss M" Montalbano, to design a playbook that would keep opposing defenses off‑balance.

The opening quarter set the tone. Panthers’ quarterback Malik Johnson, who was named the preseason team captain, completed 18 of 25 passes for 240 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson’s most memorable moment came midway through the first quarter when he found his tight end, Derek “Derek the Deer” Johnson, on a 25‑yard slant, turning a 3‑second hurry into a 25‑yard gain and a 12‑point lead for the Panthers.

Lakeview’s coach, longtime rival of Coach Riley, had been expecting a defensive showdown, but the Panthers’ defense was quick to adapt. They forced a turnover early in the second quarter when cornerback Chris “Speed” Miller intercepted a pass from Lakeview’s star quarterback and returned it 60 yards for a touchdown. The play capped the first half with the Panthers up 24‑7, a margin that would become more pronounced as the game progressed.

Lakeview attempted a comeback, but South Shore’s defensive line—anchored by senior defensive tackle Jalen “J.J.” Jefferson—maintained pressure on the opposing offense. By the fourth quarter, the Panthers’ defense had forced three sacks and had limited the Spartans to only 92 rushing yards and 180 passing yards. The game ended 31‑7, a decisive victory that sealed the Panthers’ first top‑seed spot in the NIHSL standings.

Why the Panthers’ Season Matters

The Panthers’ triumph is part of a larger story that has unfolded over the last decade in Northwest Indiana. The program has consistently been a breeding ground for high‑school talent that goes on to earn scholarships at Division I colleges. The current season has added a new layer of momentum: the Panthers have already won two district titles in the past three years and are now poised to bring home the state championship for the first time in 22 years.

Coach Riley’s commitment to the Panthers extends beyond the field. “We’re building a program that doesn’t just focus on winning games, but on building character and ensuring our athletes succeed in the classroom and beyond,” he told reporters after the win. The Panthers boast a 95% graduation rate and have been recognized by the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) for their academic achievements.

The community’s enthusiasm is reflected in the attendance. Saturday’s game drew over 6,500 spectators—a record for the Panthers’ home games since the program’s inception in 1981. Local businesses—ranging from the Gary City Bank to the South Shore Café—displayed banners and offered discounted meals to fans, underscoring the program’s significance to the local economy.

Key Players to Watch

While the Panthers’ collective effort was the centerpiece of the win, a few standout athletes are garnering attention from college scouts:

• Malik Johnson (QB) – Johnson’s leadership on the field and his record of 18 completions for 240 yards in a single game are just the beginning. He has already attracted interest from schools such as the University of Michigan and Ohio State.

• Derek “Derek the Deer” Johnson (TE) – A versatile playmaker, Derek recorded 10 receptions for 210 yards in the last three games. His ability to run precise routes and create separation from defenders makes him a prime target for the NFL’s “trailing arm” style of play.

• Jalen “J.J.” Jefferson (DT) – Jefferson’s combination of size (6’3”, 280 lbs) and speed (4.9-second 40-yard dash) is exceptional for a high‑school defensive tackle. He has earned a scholarship offer from the University of Illinois.

• Chris “Speed” Miller (CB) – Miller’s speed and ball‑hawking skills have earned him the moniker “Speed.” His two interceptions in the game against Lakeview cement his status as a defensive playmaker.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the Panthers face a demanding schedule that includes the district finals, the state playoffs, and the highly anticipated “Battle of the Lakes” against the rival Lakeview Spartans. The team is training in the summer, with Coach Riley’s pre‑season workout focusing on speed and agility drills to maintain the Panthers’ edge in the league.

In addition to their on‑field preparations, the Panthers are working with the local school district to enhance their academic support systems. A new partnership with the Gary Community College is set to provide after‑school tutoring and college readiness workshops for all student‑athletes.

Community and League Impact

The Panthers’ success has far-reaching implications for the Northwest Indiana High‑School Football League. Their dominance has spurred neighboring schools to revamp their training regimens and invest in better coaching staff. The league’s governing body, the NIHSL, is now considering expanding its postseason playoff format to accommodate the increased number of high‑performing teams.

Moreover, the Panthers’ community engagement has set a new standard for sports programs across the region. The team’s involvement in local charity events, including the annual “Run for a Cause” marathon, highlights the role of high‑school athletics in promoting social responsibility and community cohesion.

Final Thoughts

The South Shore Panthers’ 31‑7 victory over Lakeview isn’t merely a win on the scoreboard—it represents a culmination of years of hard work, a community’s unwavering support, and the promise of a bright future for the next generation of athletes. With the momentum building and a full calendar of high‑stakes games ahead, the Panthers are poised to not only bring home the state championship but also to inspire a new era of excellence in Northwest Indiana high‑school football. As Coach Riley puts it, “We’re not just playing for a trophy; we’re playing for our community, our future, and each other.”