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Jillian Studebaker, Staff Writer for The Powderhorn
As the school year starts, sports also begin, starting with a fan favorite: football. Watauga's Varsity Football team is well-known for its skills and perseverance in plays. At these games, people fill up the bleachers, eager to watch their team win and show their spirit.
"Friday nights at the Football games are my absolute favorite!" said Saoirse Fulton, 10. "It's all about the excitement, the school spirit, and hanging out with friends." Over the years, these games have become known for much more than football.
Many of the other events at the football games aren't showcased as much as the game itself. In the midst of the football season frenzy, we forget about the other events dying for our attention. The marching band, the Pacers, and the Cheerleaders all play important roles in the games as well. They are often overlooked as the game is taking place, but they play a really big role in encouraging our team, and bringing along school and team spirit.
The Student Section of the bleachers filled with students dressed for the game's theme, Blackout.
Luci Stephenson, 10, cheering in front of the rock prior to the football game.
Ava Larned, 12, cheers prior to the game.
Ava Larned, 12, cheers prior to the game.
"The most rewarding thing for me is being able to fully engage in all the traditions, crowd engagement, and ambiance of the game. When you first start it can be kind of intimidating to interact with the student section or act excited about the game," said Larned. "But after being on the team for 4 years I know what I'm supposed to do and I can help the newer girls get that same feeling."
Grant Painter, 12, leads the marching band for their halftime performance.
Watauga students and other visitors stand in line at the concession stands to get some snacks during halftime.
A storm brews on the horizon right above the mountains towering over the stadium.
Gracie Jackson, 11, performs in front of the rock with her fellow Pacers.
Jiada Ballard, 12, preps for a dance during the game.
Jiada Ballard, 12, preps for a dance during the game.
"As a senior cheerleader, it's a bittersweet feeling. The energy and excitement of the home football games are unbeatable to any other Friday-night experience," said Ballard. "It is sad to know that these are my last games in high school, but I'm glad I have this opportunity."
A cheerleader cheers on Watauga's Football team during the game.
Ella Gunnelbeck, 11, cheers on Wataugas' football team on the sidelines.
Zoe Burrows, 11, prepares to walk onto the field alongside her dance team.
The cheerleaders and Pacers begin their walk onto the football field.
The marching band performs in front of the smoke while the team runs on the field.
The marching band dances to the stadium music while they are on their break.
Zoe Burrows, 11, dances in front of The Rock.
Zoe Burrows, 11, dances in front of The Rock.
"I would describe the experience of dancing at football as exhilarating. Sometimes I feel nervous but once I'm on the field all my nerves go away and it's all about having fun," said Burrows.
Top left: JROTC walks out the flag in front of the rock
Bottom left: The marching band plays during halftime
Right: Montana Rattler, 12, performs in front of the rock with her fellow Pacers
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