Dick Bivins Stadium packed house during Spirit Week
AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Thanks to realignment the Amarillo High-Tascosa game is back where it's supposed to be, on Halloween weekend. This game is always special for everyone involved, but this year there's a district title on the line.
Both coaches have been a part of big rivalries in the past, and they maybe new to this one, but they are well aware of the excitement that comes with this big weekend.
"You know of course I've been involved in certain rivalry games, this one certainly lives up to all of those. It's highly intense," said Rebels Head Coach, Ken Plunk.
"well it is exciting you know when you first got on the job, you know it was made mention how important this ball game was, and it is an important ball game," said Sandies Head Coach, Mel Maxfield, first year at Amarillo High.
For the players, this game hits home, these kids have known each other all the way through the school system.
"I grew up playing flag football then went to middle school," said AHS Senior LB, Spencer Hodges.
"One of my best friends goes there, his name is Spencer, we've been best friends since like 6th grade. (Kale Steed-"But not this week?") not this week, no," said THS OL, Jacob Lee.
There's more to this game than just bragging rights, a District Championship looms for the winner, both are playoff bound but neither wants to walk away with a loss.
Amarillo High wide receiver Nolan David said this game will reveal who the real district champ is.
"Well, it just means you got a team that's gonna execute, and win the game. You'll know it's gonna show that the crowned victor is gonna be the true district champion."
"It's pretty important we've been working on staying district champions for about a year now. So its important," said THS, OL/DL Jacob Hall.
Atmosphere is another element that makes the Amarillo High and Tascosa rivalry what it is, the fans show up by the thousands, students, faculty, parents, and alumni, alike sport their gold and black, or red and black to show their support.
"It's gonna be neat and I'ld be lying if I didn't say it didn't add a little excitement for the coaching staff as well, but the focus will be on the players where it needs to be," said Coach Maxfield.
"Here's the deal there's 15,000-16,000 people there its gonna be loud its gonna be exciting, you're gonna get cheers, you're gonna get boos when you run through the tunnel. But you know what? That's all part of it don't try to control it one way or another just go with it and enjoy it,"said Coach Plunk.
The big game kicks off Friday night at Dick Bivins Stadium at 7:30.
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