The crosstown rivalry between Helix and Grossmont for football bragging rights will have a new twist Friday night, as the teams will be commemorating their 60th anniversary of facing off by wearing "retro" jerseys, styled after those worn during the 1952 game.
The game, known as the "Battle of the Musket," has extra intrigue as well, as both schools enter the fray with only one loss on the year with Helix at 6-1 and an unbeaten record in league play. Grossmont's only loss came two weeks ago to Steele Canyon.
Grossmont was the first and only school in the area until 1951. During the construction of Helix High School, the second district school, Helix students attended classes on the Grossmont campus for the 1951-1952 school year, then populated the current Helix campus starting in the 1952-53 school year. The rivalry between the two teams has existed ever since.
The retro jerseys are a fundraising effort of the La Mesa Historical Society, in celebration of the the city's centennial.
In addition, nine members of the 1952 Helix football team and their families will attend Friday's game. They will take part in the coin toss and other pregame activities, which begin at about 6:25 pm.
Kickoff is at 7 p.m. at Helix Charter High School.
