The newly founded tradition our football program created last year, which is creating specialized jerseys for the biggest game of the season, created sizzling anticipation throughout the campus two weeks ago. As everyone hoped, the week went by quickly so the well known rivalry game between Pitman and Turlock High could finally take place; both football teams practiced a huge amount so they could take the trophy home on Friday night.
Starting at 4:00pm, people were lining up to get the best seats in the stadium; the seats quickly filled. Although the JV team had many fans cheering them on, they unfortunately lost. Thirty minutes later, the Turlock Bulldogs’ varsity team stepped foot on the field.
The Pride was nowhere to be seen.
Soon the drum line’s famous entrance song started to play, and the team entered in a lime green jersey with a red shamrock on it – the pitcrew’s color scheme made sense now. The crowd instantly taunted the opposing sides dogpound, and each school showed full support.
From the first kickoff to the last and final down, Pitman sides roaring with cheers and confidence. The game initially had a rocky start, with the bulldogs leading 21-7 with a few minutes till halftime. Until the well trained Brent Nelle, broke away from the rest and ran in for not just one, but two touchdowns to tie up the game.
Normal game attendees, Courtney Phelps and Jessica Perry, led the cheers and ran up and down the bleachers to encourage the parents to participate as well. During the third quarter, the Pride pulled ahead. The energy soared. Phone flashlights filled each side of the bleachers, as the competitive edge fell onTurlock’s side.
In the fourth and final quarter, one name stood out from the rest – Drew Lewis. A junior who intercepted not once but twice leading to two more touchdowns; making a large gap between the score. Pitman believed to have the game in their pockets, but they still fought till the very last second.
Although two of the players were large contributors the score itself, this win was not achieved by two or three key players, but by every player on the sideline, if not through blocks, tackles, or field goals through encouragement. It was apparent that each player held admiration for each other, and for the game. Never was there a second where high fives were not given or gratitude expressed.
After the final seconds ran out, the Bulldogs left the stadium and let the pride rejoice in the hard earned win. The players ran towards the pitcrew, the band played, and congratulations were given. The trophy was brought out, the Pride achieved what they had dedicated themselves to for the past week. They also accomplished a goal that is set every season: that although they may not be number one in league, they can fight and defeat their cross town rivals.
The big difference this year was there was a large amount of civility. After the game was over, friends congratulated each other and said “good game” even though they wore different jerseys. It was apparent that it is important to respect each other, but fight the best they can when, and only when, they are on the field.
