Editorial --- Friday Night Lights: Get out and support Trojans

“There is nowhere better to be on a Friday night than a high school football game.”

– Mark Correll

Late last year, the Whitehall High School football team was on a tear as they made their way to the Montana Class B Semifinals before losing to eventual state champion Eureka. There were plenty of wins and celebration, but this was much more than just a game. It was a community coming together to support a group of kids who gave everything they had every snap of every game.

Everyone in Whitehall was abuzz as the Trojans started the season winning and carried this into the postseason. Windows of businesses and vehicles were proudly painted with the beloved Purple and Gold. The community was as one. There was no bickering about politics or anything else for that matter. Everyone just wanted to talk about how far the Trojans would go and if they could capture the elusive state championship.

Flash forward nine months and the 2017 Trojans are just days away from the start of their season. While the team graduated some key players from a year ago, they will be returning a wealth of talent with the high hopes of a return trip to the playoffs. It won’t be easy, but this team is plenty capable of greatness. It is within their reach, it is up to them to fight for it.

Starting with the opening game at Shepherd, it would be phenomenal to see the same sort of fan support and community pride return. I’ll never forget just how loud the Whitehall fans were on the road last season and there were a few times it was downright intimidating. This would be great to see at every road game. And when they open their home season September 8 against Red Lodge, it would be incredible to see each and every seat in the new bleachers filled.

It will also be just as important to have the stands packed for the volleyball team when they open their home season August 31 against Broadwater. The team will be young, but should be a lot of fun to watch progress throughout the season. The Whitehall cross country team also has a lot of meets within a short driving distance, so there is another chance to support Whitehall. There are several articles in this week’s fall sports preview that should give readers a little bit of information about not only the teams, but some of the individual players that proudly wear the Purple and Gold. Throughout the season the Ledger will cover the teams, but also highlight individual players.

These kids will give their all, and they should have the support of the community.

There is nothing quite like Friday nights in the fall. The smell of the grass, the band playing the school song, and some quality football make for an amazing evening.

I can’t think of anything better to do.

JHS