While Memorial and Legacy’s first rivalry game was not close with a final score of 51-21, it was a big showdown of school spirit full of intense competitiveness the whole week.
As I walked into school Monday, the halls lined with posters and streamers, I was instantly excited for the week ahead, but almost underwhelmed. The building is so big and it’s too much space to cover completely with decorations. However, I also know there were limits to what could be done.
I really enjoyed all of the dress-up days especially color wars Wednesday and “Top Gun” Friday. I love how we’ve embraced the movie and that imagery as part of our school’s brand.
One of my favorite parts of the week was the Silent Stampede. As a former Rider student, Mum Day was one tradition I was really going to miss. I’m glad we were able to not only revive it, but put a Maverick twist on it. I think there’s something so unifying about such a large group of people being quiet, and it helps in building anticipation for the night ahead.
I had a lot of fun at the football game, although it was extra crowded in the student section and cold. I also got one of the light-up cowboy hats they handed out to students which was super cool.
Turnout was about expected according to WFISD athletics director Grant Freeman, especially how much it rained earlier in the day.
“I think that it’s so dependent on the weather for people wanting to come out and see it, but it was a great atmosphere, lots of fun,” Freeman said. “It was really fun.”
While there are always things that could be different, Freeman feels the week went very well and there were no major challenges in the planning of the game.
“You always think of things, ways to make it better,” Freeman said. “I think we will try to find ways to find ideas that students and the community have to make it better, but I’m glad it’s over. I will sleep good tonight.”
Overall, I thought the week was a solid start to a rivalry that will only grow bigger and more intense as the years go by.
