Riverdale, GA – The atmosphere is building in Riverdale as the Raiders prepare for one of their most anticipated games of the season ,a Thursday night rivalry clash against Charles Drew High School. Riverdale enters Week 1 determined to turn the page after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The Raiders ended last season on a high note with a 21-14 victory over Stone Mountain, a win they hope will serve as a springboard into the 2026 season. Players and coaches have been putting in long hours this summer, with intense practices designed to sharpen fundamentals, improve conditioning, and instill a winning mindset.
On Monday, Riverdale Principal Sharon Wilson addressed the team during practice, emphasizing the importance of restoring the school’s winning tradition. “Riverdale has a proud history,” Wilson told the players. “That Riverdale has a winning tradition… I want this team to bring back that winning legacy”.
Across the field, the Charles Drew Titans are also hungry to start strong. Last season, Drew posted a 6-4 record, winning six of their first seven games before stumbling late with three consecutive losses that kept them from a deeper playoff run. This year, they aim to finish stronger and make a serious push for postseason success.
With both teams entering 2026 looking to prove themselves, Thursday’s game promises to be a battle of pride, grit, and redemption. For Riverdale, it’s about showing the city they’re ready to compete again. For Charles Drew, it’s about proving last year’s late-season slump was a fluke. Kickoff is set for Thursday night under the lights, and if history is any indication, this rivalry will bring out the best in both squads.
Date: August 14, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Southern Crescent Stadium
6231 Garden Walk Blvd. Riverdale, GA
