From the bleachers to the stands: Behind the spirit of the fans

This article was written by Aiyanah Castaneda and Lilah Lawrence

Whether high school games are won or lost on the field, the true heartbeat of Friday night lies in the bleachers. The student section brings together players, coaches, and students across every grade, creating a shared sense of community and school spirit that lasts far beyond the final whistle.

Bob Nowak, head football coach, has been working at the high school for 8 years and has been head coach for 8 of years. He has been working, has been working very diligently to build a strong and reliable football team. The student section is full of life, supporting the game play and amping up the players as they dominate the field. Coach Nowak believes that these ecstatic emotions from the fans motivate everyone including the players. 

“I think enthusiasm from the crowd in general absolutely has an impact on how a team plays. When they’re loud and going nuts, people tend to play a little bit more excitedly,” Nowak said.

Freshman Gage Davies believes the student section is distinct to not only the coaches but to the students who take part in it. He feels comfortable and excited when participating in the student section. 

“It [the student section] makes me feel more connected with the people around me,” Davies said.

Senior Madalynn Streeter has been attending football games since her freshman year. She enjoys leading in the front of the section, and has been looking forward to this for a long time. 

“I’ve been waiting years to do it [be in front of the student section], I like being really loud and in the spirit,” Streeter said.

Sophomore and football player Kamdyn Woodrum sees the importance of school spirit and how it affects them on the field. 

“I think if the student section is quiet, we won’t play as well, if the student section is ecstatic, I think it brings a lot more hype to the team,” said Woodrum. 

There is power when students come together and support one another. Their success is our success. The student section shows the meaning of “Our best. Your best.” Come be a part of the Wildcat community and join the student section.