We did it. We survived, though barely, another football season.
If you know me, you know I hate football. It's just not my thing. I've said I would rather clean public restrooms than sit through a game. I live in an area where generation after generation thrives on high school football season. It's not just an event, it's a lifestyle for some. Saturday another chapter came to a close with the official end of the season.
I have three children in high school, all of whom are in the band. The band is expected at every game and thus I attend a game every so often to show my support. What I've noticed since I never actually watch the game, is all the happenings that make this season what it is. It's the underdogs, the helpers, the behind- the- scenes people who often get little of the glory at the end of the day. Without these amazing individuals, this sport would not have the luster is currently does.
I'm going to give my first shout out to the custodians and maintenance staff. These people have a pretty hefty job cleaning up after the sporting events. I've seen the trash some of the spectators leave behind (so rude by the way) and these individuals are the ones cleaning up the mess time and time again. We don't give them the appreciation or the recognition that they deserve. Imagine the stadium without them? I wouldn't want to.
Next, the officers who have to stand guard because, as we all know, there have been some unruly situations every now and again. I'm sure it's not ideal to have to handle the middle school age ruffians time and time again, however, they do it and they do it well. Their service is appreciated always.
We also need to thank the sports photographers who get those action shots on the field. They show the heart of the game, and their work is pivotal in capturing those moments in time for documentation and memories for players and their families.
Like peanut butter and jelly, the football players go hand in hand with the cheerleaders. They bring a little extra pep and motivation to the team and spectators.
Next, the band. These students are the true underdogs. They are the ones expected to perform, regardless of conditions, locations, and circumstances. These students spend their summer and weeks during the school year perfecting a routine, learning stand tunes, and so much more. They bring the joy, the enthusiasm, and the life to the game. We lump them together as "the band" but they are much more. They are smart, they are talented, and they are dedicated individuals. Some are comical, some are serious- yet they bring all of these personalities into one dynamic group that somehow works together to create magic. They don't expect special accommodations. The band is a team too and one that we often don't see get the recognition or respect that they deserve. (Saturday's arrival back to the school after the winning game was a prime example of that. However, that's tea for another time).
Let's not forget the coaches and support staff of the team, the band, the guard, and the cheerleaders. Your skills, knowledge, and expertise are noticed. Where would any of these students be without each of them? Principals and teachers, you are also paramount in the success of all of the students. No other words needed.
The fans. These are the parents and families, fellow students, and members of the community. These are the people who will sit through a game in any condition. Rain, no problem. Frigid temperatures? So what. Some plan their lives around these sporting events. They are sometimes a little boisterous but for the most part, the fans love nothing more than to support the young adults in both the band and the team. Their enthusiasm is felt and often seen and heard by all.
Finally, the band parents. Without a doubt, the season would not be the same without the band parents. They spend hours every week making sure that the concessions are running smoothly, inventory is set, cleaning, prepping, and budgeting. Then, during those games, those parents are in the trenches dishing out stadium pizza and fries like pros. There is a select handful that goes above and beyond, often chaperoning events, providing puke bags on buses, and overall being the backbone of the entire band program. Thank you for your selfless service all of which is without pay. Know that you are seen and appreciated.
Yes, it's just high school football. But, again, let's give credit where credit is due. We know that what makes something great are those that support. Without that support, however big or small, these events would not happen the way that they do. Thank you to each and every person who made this season what it was. You might not have earned the title, but you certainly helped those who did in one way or another. For that, you are invaluable to the success of the team as a whole.
