OT - Did something Friday night that I highly recommend.

[northwoods]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

 

[massimoManca II]

My two boys and their HS football endeavors from ‘14 thru ‘19 successfully cured me of my tendency to blow obscene amounts of $$$ on PSU football (tickets / RV parking / fuel / time ) ….

Playing days are in the rear-view mirror as both are now in college, alas this September weather we are having here is getting me thinking about seeing some local HS games

 

[Ceasar]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough. opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

Great post Northwoods and I completely agree with you. I love high school football and IMO there is no better way to spend a Friday night. I usually attend the Bishop McDevitt game each week but also try to get to Cumberland Valley, Central Dauphin, Harrisburg High and even some of the smaller schools like Milton Hershey. This year I am going to try to get over to Trinity for a game or two. For all the reasons you list, high school football is pretty special.

 

[Bkmtnittany1]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

What time did the gates open?

 

[LB99]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

FWIW, the PA State legislature and PIAA approved the ability of PA HS athletes to secure NIL deals last year. We got an e-mail from our school district last year outlining what was acceptable and unacceptable NIL sponsorship for the HS athletes according to the school district policies. So, it will infiltrate the HS level as well. It won’t be long. I’m sure Texas and FL HS boosters are slobbering over the possibilities.

 

[BobPSU92]

What time did the gates open?

I think smoking your meat at a high school game will get you arrested.

 

[Woodpecker]

FWIW, the PA State legislature and PIAA approved the ability of PA HS athletes to secure NIL deals last year. We got an e-mail from our school district last year outlining what was acceptable and unacceptable NIL sponsorship for the HS athletes according to the school district policies. So, it will infiltrate the HS level as well. It won’t be long. I’m sure Texas and FL HS boosters are slobbering over the possibilities.

Athlete or not, I would hope anyone would be compensated for use of their name, image, or likeness.

 

[Bwifan]

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

I believe former Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Bill Lyon (might have been Frank Dolson) wrote I think back in the 90s a great article about a high school football game. The game was Central Bucks West vs. North Penn on a Friday Night. Mike Pettine Sr vs Mike Pettine Jr. Bill caught the ambiance of that night. Crisp fall air, under the lights, both teams undefeated and ranked I believe 1-2 in the state. So much anticipation, the crowd was electric. Bill Lyon wrote an amazing article that just captured so much about that night and what everyone was feeling. Reminded me of much of what you wrote. High School sports to me are so enjoyable to go to for numerous reasons and everyone should go to high school sports every now and then to remind themselves of what a treat it is to witness those games.

 

[pamdlion]

I believe former Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Bill Lyon (might have been Frank Dolson) wrote I think back in the 90s a great article about a high school football game. The game was Central Bucks West vs. North Penn on a Friday Night. Mike Pettine Sr vs Mike Pettine Jr. Bill caught

I believe former Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Bill Lyon (might have been Frank Dolson) wrote I think back in the 90s a great article about a high school football game. The game was Central Bucks West vs. North Penn on a Friday Night. Mike Pettine Sr vs Mike Pettine Jr. Bill caught the ambiance of that night. Crisp fall air, under the lights, both teams undefeated and ranked I believe 1-2 in the state. So much anticipation, the crowd was electric. Bill Lyon wrote an amazing article that just captured so much about that night and what everyone was feeling. Reminded me of much of what you wrote. High School sports to me are so enjoyable to go to for numerous reasons and everyone should go to high school sports every now and then to remind themselves of what a treat it is to witness those games.

Documentary about that season called The Last Game. Watch it if you haven’t. It’s very good.

Nothing better than PA high school football on a Friday night.

 

[Ludd]

Athlete or not, I would hope anyone would be compensated for use of their name, image, or likeness.

I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a high school using a player’s NIL to make money.

 

[Bwifan]

Documentary about that season called The Last Game. Watch it if you haven’t. It’s very good.

Nothing better than PA high school football on a Friday night.

I did a quick google to see if I could find that article that Bill Lyon wrote. Couldn't find it. Was really terrific and captured the essence of that night and high school Friday night football in PA.

 

[Woodpecker]

I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a high school using a player’s NIL to make money.

Probably explains why the high schools aren't paying them

 

[FHSPSU67]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

And this is why Friday nights should be dedicated to high school. football.

 

[wbcbus]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

I was in Charleston a couple times in the spring. Had never been there before, what a great town.

 

[DaytonRickster]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

When we visit our grandchildren in TN, we like to attend their respective HS football games. It is great fun and as you said, a bargain. Still something special about HS football.

 

[Frank3]

I went to a high school football game here in Charleston, SC (Phillip Simmons hosting Andrews). One of the best $7.00 I've ever spent, with free close-in parking, $1.00 bottles of water, and usually half price pizza once the second half starts. Phillip Simmons won 52-28, and features two Division 1A seniors in DB/WR Troy Stevenson (Georgia Tech) and a K/P whose name escapes me (college undecided) but who could kick for Penn State right now (7/7 on PAT's, 1/1 on field goals, and net 65 yards on his one punt. Every extra point would have been a good field goal from 50 yards out). There is a new rule in South Carolina high school football that if a kickoff goes into the end zone in the air and is caught it can't be run out, but instead goes into play on the 20 yard line. I believe seven of his nine kickoffs went into the end zone, and the other two just missed.

But what made the night so special was that it was high school football. Meeting friend after friend/neighbor after neighbor in the nearly 100% full new stadium home stands, hearing the band playing well and having themselves a ball rockin' out in the second half, watching the cheerleaders (I plead guilty of being a DOM), enjoying the enthusiasm of the student section, and seeing two teams play hard and well simply because they love the game. The entire scene was just special.

True indeed that a Penn State home game against a tough opponent provides much of the same, and skilled players to watch at almost all positions, but if you're bummed out by the present realities of (and future uncertainties and worries about) NIL, the transfer portal, the demise of both tradition and the student athlete, and the almighty dollar now dominating virtually all decisions (I won't even bring up the subject of professional sports), treat yourself to a local high school football game. I promise you'll thank me.

I live in Mt Pleasant and we should get together some time and talk PSU football. Maybe over a round of golf (i am at Bulls Bay). Need some friends that understand PSU football and what it means to us! Used to go to the Bishop England football games when my son went there - it is a lot of fun.

 

[LB99]

Probably explains why the high schools aren't paying them

No, the schools aren’t paying them, but it is now acceptable in some states for the local car dealership, clothing store, mechanic’s garage etc to pay them and use them for advertising. I have a bit of an issue with minors being involved in this and the can of worms it opens.

 

[WVilleLion]

Yeah, I will be the Debbie Downer. I ho early think it is awesome so many of you find enjoyment in HS Football. I went to 1-2 games last season, however I just cannot get into it.

 

[northwoods]

I live in Mt Pleasant and we should get together some time and talk PSU football. Maybe over a round of golf (i am at Bulls Bay). Need some friends that understand PSU football and what it means to us! Used to go to the Bishop England football games when my son went there - it is a lot of fun.

Bishop England plays at Phillip Simmons mid-season, and I'll definitely be at the game. As you probably know, BE had a tremendous number of injuries last year which had a lot to do with their lousy season. They almost have to be better this year, but will still be underdogs to PS (which is loaded and has now moved up to a higher classification). I wouldn't subject my worst enemy to my golf game, but yes --- I would enjoy getting together. I go back a long way following Penn State football. I've only lived in Charleston for two years, moving down to Daniel Island from Little River, just north of Myrtle Beach right on the NC/SC line. My career was in the ski industry, so I spent most of my adult life in Vermont.

 

[Woodpecker]

No, the schools aren’t paying them, but it is now acceptable in some states for the local car dealership, clothing store, mechanic’s garage etc to pay them and use them for advertising. I have a bit of an issue with minors being involved in this and the can of worms it opens.

So you are against minors being used for promotion of products? That's fine but you realize that extends well beyond athletes, right?

 

[LB99]

So you are against minors being used for promotion of products? That's fine but you realize that extends well beyond athletes, right?

I have a problem with kids being paid because they can throw a ball far or run fast. This opens up a big can of worms for high schools. You don’t think some shady back door NIL deals will go down to get kids to transfer from one school to another for sports? Or some other shady NIL offers to minors. Let’s stop acting like it’s all innocent and well thought out. It isn’t.

 

[LionJim]

I have a problem with kids being paid because they can throw a ball far or run fast. This opens up a big can of worms for high schools. You don’t think some shady back door NIL deals will go down to get kids to transfer from one school to another for sports? Or some other shady NIL offers to minors. Let’s stop acting like it’s all innocent and well thought out. It isn’t.

It’s not innocent and it’s not well thought out but there are already a ton of young people getting money because they can sing, or are beautiful. You don’t have to like it but telling someone he can’t take legit promotion money just won’t legally fly in America 2023.

 

[OhioLion]

Find a D-2 college game nearby and attend. Good ball being played.

Anchor Up Grand Valley Lakers!!

OL

 

[Ludd]

It’s not innocent and it’s not well thought out but there are already a ton of young people getting money because they can sing, or are beautiful. You don’t have to like it but telling someone he can’t take legit promotion money just won’t legally fly in America 2023.

But are the singer and the beautiful person using the school to get people to come watch them? I doubt it. The best running back in the world isn’t bringing in anyone to watch him if he’s playing by himself….he needs the school and the team to show off his skills. So he is getting value from the school to help him get a scholarship.

 

[LionJim]

But are the singer and the beautiful person using the school to get people to come watch them? I doubt it. The best running back in the world isn’t bringing in anyone to watch him if he’s playing by himself….he needs the school and the team to show off his skills. So he is getting value from the school to help him get a scholarship.

Yeah, not exactly the same. A point well made. Would this change the legal realities?

 

[Woodpecker]

But are the singer and the beautiful person using the school to get people to come watch them? I doubt it. The best running back in the world isn’t bringing in anyone to watch him if he’s playing by himself….he needs the school and the team to show off his skills. So he is getting value from the school to help him get a scholarship.

Yes, I understand that people have and will push beyond the limits and enter into shady dealings. There probably should be some regulation but who should enforce it? The NCAA? But you seem to think that athletes should not be compensated by third parties for use of their NIL if they go to college. I also understand that that was the way it was and we all liked it but was that fair to the athletes?