Tonight's game: 7 p.m. against Washburn

Namesake: Pershing Park was named for Gen. John "Blackjack" Pershing, commander of U.S. forces in World War I, according to "Parks, Lakes, Trails and So Much More," researched and written by David C. Smith. The name was adopted Dec. 5, 1922. In January 1923, Gen. Pershing sent a note to thank the board for naming the park in his honor. His letter was framed and hung in the offices of the park board.

In 1940, nearby Southwest High School was opened and land at Pershing Park later became home to the school's football field and track.

Friday's football game against Washburn will be the first played under lights at Pershing Park. Southwest alum Jodi Wishart coordinated the renting of generator-powered lighting units. About 3,800 tickets were sold to an afternoon home game against Washburn a few seasons ago. Southwest activities director Ryan Lamberty said he expects Friday's turnout "to blow those numbers away."