Football has served as a strong bond between Anthony Foster of Elgin and his father. The elder Anthony Foster, who also played for the Maroons, frequently shares football conversations with his son. ‘We talk about it all the time,’ the younger Foster shared. His father was part of the team that last hosted a playoff game at Memorial Field with a 38-15 win against East St. Louis in 2000.
Fast forward to Friday at 7 p.m., the younger Foster will lead the Maroons (5-4) at Memorial Stadium in a Class 7A opening-round game against Reavis (4-5). The winner will face East St. Louis in the next round. Elgin’s coach Anthony Mason commented, ‘That was our mission the whole offseason.’ They aimed for success in the upcoming game.
Foster has significantly contributed to the Maroons’ achievements. Last year, he faced a setback when an injury in the season finale against Bartlett barred his participation in a playoff loss to Barrington. Previously, a torn ACL at the end of his freshman year kept him out during his sophomore year. ‘This is an absolutely amazing opportunity,’ Mason expressed. After a second ACL injury, many kids quit, but Foster persevered and is having a remarkable season.
Senior quarterback Jacob Rufino emphasized how Foster’s resilience has inspired the team. ‘It gave us more of a reason to play for each other,’ Rufino stated. He and Foster had significant discussions over the summer, highlighting Foster’s eagerness to return and contribute.
Foster, as the lead back for Elgin, has achieved 1,087 yards and 15 touchdowns on 127 carries. He also made 11 catches for 87 yards and a touchdown. Previously, he rushed for 629 yards and five touchdowns before his injury last season. ‘I can do anything, catch the ball out of the backfield,’ Foster noted. ‘I don’t shy away from contact.’ His ability to evade tackles and make strategic moves adds depth to the team’s strategy.
The Maroons showcase a versatile offense. Rufino has passed for 1,359 yards and 12 touchdowns, and values Foster’s presence in the backfield. ‘Having Anthony just being in the backfield, my dump-off if I need him, I can make any read I want,’ Rufino explained. ‘Especially if the pocket is breaking down, I can always count on him to make a big play.’
Elgin’s Anthony Foster takes a handoff from Jacob Rufino against Bartlett during the second quarter of an Upstate Eight Conference game in Elgin on Friday, Oct 24, 2025.– H. Rick Bamman / The Beacon-News
This element of making big plays is what coach Mason appreciates about Foster. He described Foster as ‘dynamic all around,’ capable of playing receiver or running back. ‘We’re an offensive team trying to score as many points as we possibly can.’
Elgin will miss its student section at Friday’s game after an incident in the recent 62-14 victory over Larkin. Still, Foster will experience something similar to what his father felt 26 years ago when Elgin hosted a playoff game.
Senior running back Anthony Foster reflected, ‘It feels great, especially being able to play here for the first time in 26 years. It’s a great feeling to do something like that. I’m excited to see what it’s like.’
Senior running back Anthony Foster takes a break from film study at Elgin on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026.– Paul Johnson / The Beacon-News
Reporter Paul Johnson provided information from The Beacon-News for this article.