FRIDAY NIGHTS, DIFFERENT LIGHTS
How a season away from home has brought the Patriots closer together
By Bailey Waller, Class of 2028
This season has seen its fair share of losses, as well as some amazing wins for the team. Through it all, the players have kept their spirits high, coming into each game ready and excited to play. With the Patriot Athletic Campus (PAC) under renovation, the team has spent much of the season on the road. Away games mean a lot of changes for players, both on and off the field. From not having home-field advantage to having fewer fans in the bleachers on game day, there's never a dull moment.
With each game, there are new facilities to visit, different fields to play on, and new people to meet! Some of the football players have made great memories in these unusual circumstances. With bus rides becoming a staple of Friday nights, the team has been able to spend more time together and have a little fun before each game.
“Messing around with your friends while on the bus is fun,” said junior Kenston Cotty.
There is an excitement around every game, even with the different obstacles the team faces. These games are an opportunity to spend time with teammates while working hard and having fun along the way.
Although the field is under construction, ringing the bell is still a staple of every well-earned win. This tradition goes back years and remains an important part of celebrating the team's victories.
“After we won our first game, everyone was really hyped to ring the bell when we got back to the PAC,” said junior Tyler Webb.
The excitement is high every time a game is won. There is a tangible energy in the air, with smiles all around from players, cheerleaders, and their parents. Each game feels special, but the team follows a rule that wins and losses only last for 24 hours. After that, the focus shifts to the next game.
Hard work is important to these players, and each game is a fresh opportunity to give their best effort on every play. With the season nearing its end, the Patriots have two more games to look forward to. They'll travel to face Towers High School on Thursday, October 29, before returning to Savior Field on Friday, November 6, for a special Homecoming and Senior Night game against Mount Vernon School.
As the season comes to a close, there are still memories to be made and stories to tell. Here's to the Friday night lights!