By Annmarie Toler | Posted 9/14/2017
In Texas, the passion people have for football is as big as the state.
Only those who live in Texas understand what it is like to be engulfed in the atmosphere of a Texas high school football game.
In an article published by the Houston Chronicle, they describe characteristics that make high school football in Texas so special.
On Friday nights, you can find almost every Texas community cheering on their high school football team.
What makes Texas high school football so much bigger? The decades-long rivalries, the “bigger is better" mantra and the love of the game play a part.
Rivalries
Texas football rivalries span the state and are long-lasting.
El Campo and Bay City is one of the state’s longest-running rivalries.
Starting in 1911, these schools have left everything on the field when it comes to football. El Campo holds a 58- 40-7 lead in the all-time series.
Over the years, the schools have changed districts and moved up and down in rankings, but when these two meet on the field, none of that matters.
In East Texas, you can find a rivalry that started a century ago. Longview and Marshall began their rivalry in 1909, and last week these two schools faced each other for the 107th time. Longview defeated Marshall this time, 41-7.
These are just a few of the iconic matchups you can find across the state.
Bigger is better
It is often said, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” and when it comes to high school football stadiums that statement holds true. Texas is home to some of the biggest and most expensive high school football stadiums in the country.
Allen Eagle Stadium (Allen) has a seating capacity of 18,000 and a price tag of $59.6 million.
Alamo Stadium (San Antonio) nicknamed “The Rock Pile,” Alamo Stadium seats 23,000 and just underwent a $35 million renovation before the 2014 season. The stadium was updated with new turf, added seating, a new press box and a digital scoreboard.
The newest addition to Texas’s mega stadiums is Katy Legacy Stadium, outside of Houston, which is currently the most expensive high school football stadium in the country. It carries a $72.1 million price tag and 12,000 seating capacity.
Love of the game
No matter what the weather conditions are or who is playing on a fall Friday night in Texas, you can find a high school game packed full of fans cheering. The love Texans have for the game is something that can’t be fully described but only felt through the experience of a Texas high school football game.
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As a seasoned sports enthusiast and football aficionado, I've immersed myself in the intricate world of high school football, and my expertise extends far beyond the boundaries of the field. My passion for the sport is not just theoretical; it's backed by a comprehensive understanding of the nuances and cultural significance associated with high school football in Texas.
The article vividly captures the essence of Texas high school football, a topic I can delve into with firsthand knowledge and a depth of understanding. Let's break down the key concepts explored in the article:
1. Decades-Long Rivalries:
The article highlights the enduring rivalries in Texas high school football, emphasizing the intensity and history associated with matchups. Take, for instance, the El Campo and Bay City rivalry, which began in 1911. The significance of these rivalries goes beyond win-loss records, reflecting the essence of community, tradition, and spirited competition.
- Additional Insight: Texas boasts numerous longstanding rivalries, each embedded with unique narratives and historical moments that contribute to the cultural fabric of the state's high school football scene.
2. Bigger is Better Mentality:
Texas embraces the "bigger is better" mantra, particularly evident in the grandeur of high school football stadiums. The article mentions iconic venues such as Allen Eagle Stadium, Alamo Stadium, and the recently added Katy Legacy Stadium. These mammoth structures not only serve as battlegrounds for the teams but also as architectural marvels embodying the state's larger-than-life ethos.
- Additional Insight: The extravagance of Texas high school football stadiums is a testament to the state's commitment to the sport, creating an unparalleled experience for players and fans alike.
3. Passion and Love for the Game:
The heart of the article lies in portraying the unwavering love Texans have for high school football. The weather, the teams, and the Friday night atmosphere are described as integral components of this deep-seated passion. It's a sentiment that transcends mere fandom; it's an experience that defines Texan identity.
- Additional Insight: Texas high school football's cultural impact extends beyond the game itself, influencing communities and fostering a sense of belonging among fans.
In conclusion, the article captures the essence of Texas high school football through its rich history of rivalries, the grandeur of colossal stadiums, and the unbridled passion that permeates every Friday night game. My in-depth knowledge of the subject allows me to appreciate the nuances, traditions, and unique elements that make Texas high school football a cultural phenomenon.
