GRANBY, CO – The crisp, thin air of the high country will be electric with anticipation this Friday night as a storied local rivalry is reignited. The Middle Park Panthers varsity football team is set to defend their home turf in a thrilling non-conference showdown against the Estes Park Bobcats. This is more than just a season opener; it’s a battle for the Trail Ridge Cup, a trophy that symbolizes pride, history, and bragging rights for the community that holds it high.

Everything You Need to Know:

• Who: Estes Park Bobcats vs. Middle Park Panthers

• What: Varsity Football & Trail Ridge Cup Rivalry Game

• When: Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM

• Where: Middle Park High School, Granby, CO

• Live Stream: Watch on NFHS Network!

The opening kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Middle Park High School in Granby.

The Stakes: More Than Just a Non-Conference Game

While the game officially falls outside league play, for players, coaches, and fans from both sides of the Continental Divide, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Trail Ridge Cup, named for the majestic highway that connects these two mountain communities, is a testament to a long-standing athletic rivalry. Every snap, tackle, and touchdown will be played with an extra layer of intensity, as both teams seek to start their 2025 campaign on the highest note possible by claiming the coveted cup.

For the Panthers, a strong performance at home is crucial for building momentum. There’s no better way to energize a team and its fan base than a decisive victory against a historic rival. The Bobcats, meanwhile, will look to travel into Panther territory and silence the home crowd, aiming to return to Estes Park with the cup and early-season confidence.

Keys to the Game

For Middle Park (Granby):

• Home Field Advantage: The energy from a passionate home crowd under the Friday night lights is an intangible asset. The Panthers must harness this energy from the first whistle.

• Establish the Ground Game: Mountain football is often won in the trenches. Controlling the line of scrimmage and establishing a consistent rushing attack will be paramount for the Panthers’ offensive success.

• Defensive Discipline: Containing the Bobcats’ key playmakers and forcing early turnovers could quickly shift the game’s momentum in their favor.

For Estes Park:

• Travel Ready: Making the trip over to Granby requires mental fortitude. The Bobcats must be prepared to start fast and overcome any early travel fatigue.

• Aerial Attack: Testing the Panthers’ secondary with a balanced and efficient passing game could open up opportunities for their own run game.

• Special Teams Execution: In what is often a close, hard-fought game, field position and capitalizing on field goal opportunities can make the ultimate difference.

A Community Event

This matchup is a hallmark event for both towns. It’s a night where students, parents, alumni, and community members clad in school colors come together to cheer on their local athletes. The sounds of the marching band, the smell of stadium concessions, and the collective roar on a big play are what make high school football a cherished tradition in Colorado’s mountain communities.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure a seat and enjoy the full pregame atmosphere. Be sure to wear your black and gold for Middle Park or your red and white for Estes Park, and get ready to be loud.

Come out and support your Panthers as they write the first chapter of the 2025 season. Let’s pack the stands and show what Middle Park pride is all about