small town.

Tonight is the first TUHS home football game of the 2008 season. I know that I have to get there during the JV game, or sit with the band, because there is no other way I will have a seat in the stands. I guess there really isn't a bother though, because everyone in Taft has their own seats, where they and their family sit every year. There is just something about small towns that rallies us around our high school sports teams. Even though I have moved away, I live close enough that I would not miss this event for anything. In fact, one of my closest friends is having her birthday party tonight, and I am missing most of it to be with my home town in the crowd to cheer on the Wildcats.

I am looking forward to many rituals that come with these home games. The "Cat Scratch Fever" kick-off song; every person on their feet for extra points after every touchdown while the band plays the fight song. Gary Reene and Greg Davis announcing all the play-by-play action from the press box. The amazing Tri-Tip sandwiches and Frito Boats from the snack bar. The rivalry between the cheerleaders and band...how fast can the band play "The Indian Song" and the cheerleaders still keep up with their dancing?! And, of course, the ending of the game with the Alma Matar. Also, being that I am a alumnus of the TUHS Marching Wildcat Band, I live for half-time and the field show. Tonight is extra special due to the memorial black arm sashes that the band will be wearing for my uncle who passed away last week.

Oh, small towns and high school football. Nothing is better...