High school football started Friday night, and while I was at the Red Carpet Bowl, I couldn’t help but think back to my high school days. I started my senior year 10 years ago, and spent every single fall Friday night of my high school career at football games.

Back in those days my high school was not known for its football team, typically going 2-8, but that was not the reason I attended the games. I was a very proud member of an award winning marching band. We always cheered for the team, but we knew better than to expect wins. In fact, no one seemed to really mind having a losing season because it’s just the way it was.

What I really remember is the pounding rhythm of the drums, constantly sweating and appreciating every member for their hard work and dedication to the show we put on the field. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned a lot about working with others as part of a team and gained friendships and skills that have stayed with me all this time.

Some things have changed since I graduated. The team now goes to the playoffs yearly, but the band has stayed the same and is still on top of its game continuing the winning tradition. I haven’t played my instrument in about eight years now, but I still enjoy watching a band take the field. Friday night was no exception as I saw each band play.

I know it’s not an easy job being a band member with practice during the summer and every day during and after school in the oppressive southern heat. Much of their work goes unnoticed as the football crowd goes to the concession stand during halftime. It’s a thankless job, but it is worthwhile.

It’s really like being part of a sorority or a fraternity. It’s hard to understand from the outside looking in, but being part of something that is bigger than one person is something I think all humans crave.

It’s strange to think so much time has passed since I was in high school. The students keep looking younger, but the dynamics seem to stay the same.

I hope the local high school football teams have a winning season, but I also want to wish the best for the area marching bands this football season. Be proud of what you do and do it to the best of your ability. As we ended every practice we yelled, “Head up, shoulders back, eyes with pride, we are awesome.”