Here at Apex Friendship High School, Friday night football has always been more than just a game. It provides an experience, a celebration, and a place to strengthen the community. Even for those that don’t worship the sport, the Patriots know how to include something for everyone at games, from halftime shows to one of the most energetic student sections in the state. The atmosphere of football nights at AFHS can only be described as powerful and exciting, making the evening not just an event, but a show. And what better way to promote a show than to meet some of the actors? Read on to learn more about the wonderful contributors to the football community and who to check out at the next game.
The Pit
The loudest cheers and most enthusiastic energy at the AFHS football games undoubtedly comes from the Pit, the school’s student section. Decked out in spirit wear and eagerly standing on the bleachers, the students occupying this hub of excitement never fail to pump up both the team and the crowd. Kendall Gillespie, a senior and Pit leader, says “I like being a Pit leader just because school spirit has always been a big thing for me...it always gets me hyped and makes us feel united as a school.” She continues to talk about her reasons for being a leader, saying “It’s really important that we are all united, and so I wanted to instill that in the younger students as well to keep that going.”
Patriot Regiment
With their distinguished uniforms and incredible music, the Patriot Regiment remains a staple in football games. They perform a stunning halftime show, complete with full sets and color guard choreography that take up the entire football field, making it a spectacle sure to invoke awe in all their viewers. This year, the band has chosen Western Expansion for their theme, donning cowboy hats and using a train prop to convey their story. John Mellenberger and Aaron Eckstein, seniors on the marching band, both love being a part of the group and performing at games. “It’s really easy to connect with other people in the band,” says Aaron. "Having friends and having people to play with is just a blast.” John adds.
Dance Team
Positioned on the sidelines in front of the bleachers, the AFHS dance team spends Friday nights performing beautiful routines for the crowd. They set their dances to beats provided by both the band and music from the loudspeakers, and also have their own performance during halftime. With their bright smiles and fun hair flips, the dance team does a fabulous job hyping up spectators at the games. One of the team captains, Kara Forslund, talks about game performances, saying “I love the pregame that we do because it really gets everyone ready for the game.” Selena San Jose, the other team captain, builds on this, saying “I love performing at halftime because it gets the crow really involved and makes them really interested.”
AFHS Cheer
Last but not least, the talented and fearless cheerleading team executes astonishing stunts and routines for onlookers. They stand in front of the students section, cheering and boosting the energy of the crowd. The sheer razzmatazz of the group gets the student section excited. Claire Hummle, a senior on the team, says “My favorite part of football is definitely the atmosphere and cheering for our team.” The cheer team exemplifies the absolute electricity surrounding the incredible Apex Friendship football games.
Comments