An ode to high school football

Published: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 10:30 am

High School Football: A Reflection on Risk and Reward

As autumn arrives, the echoes of high school football resonate, stirring memories of the gridiron. This year, the news of the Lee High School Wildcats' advancement to the MIAA Division VIII finals has sparked a wave of nostalgia. The author, a former player, reflects on his own brief and unremarkable high school football career, a journey marked by both physical challenges and enduring lessons.

The author's team, unlike the Wildcats, never tasted championship glory. Despite fielding a team with limited numbers, they competed against larger, more formidable schools. This ambitious schedule was a legacy from the author's father, a former champion football player. The author, initially more inclined towards academics, found himself drawn to the sport after a growth spurt.

The author's experience was shaped by a demanding coach and a supportive assistant. The team achieved some success until a tragic event during the author's junior year. A teammate, the team's co-captain, suffered a fatal brain injury during a game. This devastating loss demoralized the team, leading to a losing season and the departure of the coach.

The text acknowledges the inherent dangers of football, highlighting its high injury rate, particularly concussions. Despite these risks, football remains the most popular high school sport in the nation, with over a million boys and thousands of girls participating annually. The author's wife, a former cheerleader, discouraged their sons from playing football.

The author acknowledges the potential benefits of the sport, such as fitness, discipline, and teamwork. However, he also reflects on the physical toll, recalling his own scars and injuries. He expresses a wish for the Wildcats and all young athletes to experience the character-building aspects of football without suffering lasting harm. The author concludes by acknowledging the lasting impact of the sport, both positive and negative, and the lessons learned from both victory and defeat.

BNN's Perspective:

The enduring popularity of high school football speaks to its ability to instill valuable life lessons. However, the inherent risks, particularly the potential for long-term health consequences, cannot be ignored. Finding a balance between the benefits of the sport and the safety of its participants is crucial. Continued efforts to improve safety protocols and equipment are essential to ensure that young athletes can enjoy the game without jeopardizing their future well-being.

Keywords: high school football, football, injuries, concussions, sports, MIAA, Wildcats, team, coach, injuries, discipline, teamwork, risks, benefits, youth sports, athletes, safety, brain injury, character building

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