On Friday night, two Michigan high school football teams will face off in a rivalry that dates back generations.
Last year, MLive was there to capture the anticipation, preparation, drama, tears and even vandalism that led up to the 49th match between Bay City Central and Bay City Western.
WATCH: Rivalry: Battle of the Bay
Our documentary crew camped out in Bay City for the entire week leading up to the game, following the players at practice, and talking to the coaches, marching band, cheerleaders, teachers, administrators and super fans.
Bay City Central team captain Cade Sowinski is interviewed for MLive's documentary "Rivalry: Battle of the Bay" on October 17, 2023.Lori Chapman
The documentary spotlights Bay City, but it’s a story that can resonate across the state, where high school football is part of the lifeblood of so many communities.
“Rivalry: Battle of the Bay” was an official selection at multiple Michigan film festivals this year. You can rent or buy it on Amazon.
You can watch the movie on Amazon Prime now.
Lori Chapman is a senior producer on MLive’s video team.
Click here to watch more MLive documentaries and award-winning projects.