Celebrating Friday Night Lights

Tonight marks the beginning of a community ritual

An empty Troy Memorial Stadium at night

Civic Capacity has dealt with some pretty critical issues lately. Annexations, Comprehensive Plans, Zoning; all of these are important issues that shape and form the communities we live now and in the future. Today’s topic might seem a bit on the lighter side (and it is), but it is no less important for the fabric and the identity of the communities we live in; especially here in this part of Western Ohio.

One of my favorite television series is Friday Night Lights. The show stands as a captivating piece of work that transcends the realm of high school football and teenage angst. Even as a show that is now is almost twenty years old, the show holds up pretty well for audiences today. Set in the heart of a small Texas town, the series masterfully blends the exhilarating world of high school football with the poignant stories of its characters' lives. With an authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals, families, and the community as a whole, the show paints a compelling picture of life in a small town.

While the fictional town of Dillon, Texas, is far from Ohio, many communities in Miami County share the same heart and passion for Friday nights. High school football emerges as more than just a sport; it becomes a binding thread that weaves together the fabric of community identity, from the most rural areas to the largest cities. As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the roar of the crowd and the sound of helmets colliding on Friday nights signify not only a game, but a cultural phenomenon deeply embedded in the essence of life here in Ohio. Tonight marks the beginning of another high school football season, and while we may all be sweating in the stands here in August, the end of the season will arrive before we know it. By October, we will be bundled up in our coats, cheering our hometown teams on.

High school football in this part of Ohio is more than just a sport; it's a cultural tradition passed down through generations. For many, it evokes memories of crisp autumn evenings, hot cocoa, and the camaraderie of friends and neighbors. For students, players, parents, and the community at large, the local high school football team often serves as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the values, history, and character of the community. The shared experience of attending games, rallying behind the team, and participating in pre-game rituals forms a collective memory that binds residents together. In a world where the pace of life seems to be constantly accelerating and, sadly, one that is marked by high levels of the loss of community and even loneliness, high school football serves as a unifying force.

The impact of high school football reverberates beyond the stands, spurring economic activity that invigorates small communities. Home games draw visitors from neighboring towns, stimulating local businesses such as restaurants and shops. The influx of visitors not only boosts revenue but also showcases our hometown’s hospitality and charm, leaving a lasting impression on newcomers and solidifying the strong cultural bonds our residents have with their hometowns; I still believe one of the most iconic views of this community is sitting on the home side of Troy Memorial Stadium and seeing the County Courthouse rise up from the visitor side bleachers. The economic synergy generated by these games provides a much-needed lifeline for local businesses, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the community.

Friday night football becomes a source of immense pride for towns across our state. The achievements and triumphs of the local team are celebrated as victories for the entire community. How many times have we driven on this state’s back roads and seen signs celebrating the triumphs of yesterday as we enter a new town? This sense of pride extends beyond the field, instilling a deep-rooted confidence that radiates throughout the town. From spirited pep rallies to colorful banners lining the streets, the collective pride becomes an emblem of unity, showcasing the community's resilience and determination.

Beyond its role as a source of entertainment, football plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young athletes. For many, it serves as a platform for personal growth, teaching invaluable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, leadership, and perseverance. Coaches and mentors become guiding figures, imparting wisdom that extends beyond the gridiron. Through the challenges and victories of the sport, young players learn to navigate the complexities of life, preparing them for the journey ahead.

In an era of rapid urbanization and globalization, our hometowns and rural communities often find themselves at a crossroads between preserving their unique identity and embracing change. High school football serves as a steadfast guardian of cherished small-town values, reminding us of simpler times and the enduring qualities that define these communities. The game fosters a sense of continuity, connecting the past with the present and inspiring residents to safeguard their heritage in the face of modern challenges.

The commitment and enthusiasm displayed by residents during high school football games extend to other aspects of community life. For years, the local blood bank has used the Troy-Piqua rivalry to encourage residents of both communities to donate, bestowing honor on the community that collectively makes the most donations.

The bonds formed in the stands translate into active civic engagement, with individuals coming together to support local initiatives, charities, and causes. The spirit of collaboration and volunteerism that permeates these events often lays the foundation for ongoing community involvement, strengthening the social fabric and creating a sense of responsibility to uplift our county’s hometowns.

Here in this part of Ohio, particularly in Miami County, high school football transcends its role as a mere athletic endeavor. It embodies community identity, serves as a symbol of unity, and acts as a repository of cherished traditions. The passion and spirit surrounding these games resonate deeply within the hearts of small-town residents, fostering a sense of pride, belonging, and purpose. As the cheers echo across the fields and the teams march under the Friday night lights, high school football stands as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of our communities!

So, whether you cheer for the Trojans, the Indians, the Red Devils, the Bees, the Bulldogs, the Vikings, the Buccs, the Railroaders, the Eagles, or the Cavaliers, I hope your team has a successful season.

A New Way to Support This Work

Our readers and subscribers have been asking for a new way to support the work being done here at Civic Capacity! Some of our readers do not like the idea of having to sign up for another subscription service. Some of our subscribers occasionally want to give more support through a one-time transaction.

Civic Capacity is partnering with “Buy Me A Coffee” to give our readers, subscribers and friends an opportunity to give one-time support to Civic Capacity. Personally, I don’t like coffee, but I will never turn down a nice iced tea. If you feel compelled to support this effort, just click the button below.

Thanks for reading today’s Civic Capacity Newsletter! Please feel free to share this information with your friends and neighbors.

Also, please consider subscribing to our work. If you are a free subscriber, please consider becoming a paid subscriber. For less than $1 a week, you can get timely and conversational updates about the decisions that are impacting you and your community!