The Harriton Rivalry

The Lower Merion-Harriton boy's soccer rivalry began not long after Harriton High School opened back in 1959. The 2 sister high schools were never in a league together, and only played each other occasionally. In the early 70's they began playing each other more regularly, and since both schools were in the same school district it slowly grew into a very heated rivalry. It got to the point where the administration decided that the two schools would no longer play each other in any sport, as it was beginning to divide the district.

However, in the mid-80's, both schools had very strong boy's soccer teams, who each won their respective league titles fairly regularly. Because of this they ended up playing each other in the District One playoffs. By this time all the players from both schools knew each other because they played together on club teams during the off season. Because of this, the rivalry, although very competitive, was played with mutual respect for the other side. Thus, the 2 schools again began scheduling each other in non-league games.

In 2008 Harriton (formerly of the Del-Val league) joined the Central League and now the two sister high schools play each other every year. Last year both teams made the District Playoffs.

In their history; Lower Merion & Harriton have played 30 times, and for the most part the games have been very close. However, however, Lower Merion holds a commanding edge, winning 18 times, losing only twice, with 10 ties.

This Tuesday they will play for the 31st time, on the turf at Arnold Field, at 3:45 PM. Come on out and watch the rivalry continue.