School is out for the weekend, yet the school’s parking lot is overflowing with cars. When the last bell rings on a typical day, kids are rushing to make it out the door, so this voluntary return to school grounds on a Friday night can mean only one thing: football season.
While the stands at other school sports can have room to spare, you’ll be hard pressed to find space in the stadium during a football game. There must be more going on here than just a group of guys throwing around a ball. So, what has teenagers and the community at large coming together in such a way?
In truth, many students who attend the football games leave at the end of the night not knowing the final score or even who we played. However, that doesn’t really matter because people come for a good time.
“I’m here because all my friends are here. I don’t even watch football,” Teertha Golconda (9) said.
Not only are football games a good way to meet up with friends, but they provide a chance to support loved ones. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and cousins all show up, cheering on relatives who participate in this production. Many families come to support not only football players, but also cheerleaders, dancers, color guard, and marching band. Essentially, the game isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about connection.
“I’m here tonight to watch my boyfriend and celebrate senior night, obviously, but I also love to support the school and show school spirit. I love football,” Izabella Signaigo (12) said.
The gathering of the school body outside of school hours may be caused by a weekly football game, but it is fueled by pride and a sense of togetherness, as we all cheer for the same thing.
“It’s fun to have school spirit and get to watch your team kick butt,” Penny Weston (10) said.
If the tutus, glitter, and body paint found at football games were seen in any other place, they would get stares and looks of concern. But, on these Friday nights, it’s expected and even encouraged.
“I showed up to show spirit and be here for my team. I have my Captain America partner right here with me. We’re partners in crime, superheroes, all the way. We’re rocking the theme and showing spirit,” Colin Ashby (11) said.
“I’m Captain America, and I’m repping out for Liberty. We’re bringing the spirit and bringing the energy,” Jacob Jones (11) added.
Evidently, Friday Night Lights is not just about the sport. Whether students show up for the game, their friends, or just to have an excuse to dress up, everyone is in the stands. The community shows up and rallies together behind their team in unity, and no matter if we win or lose, you know everyone will show up next week to do it all over again.
