As the final bell rang, students burst out of class to the Falcons’ first football game against Gunter High School. 

The bright lights, the roar of the crowd, and the sense of camaraderie filled their minds. But this game on Thursday, August 28, felt different from any other season opener.

Last year Kinkaid lost to Gunter 23-14, and it was an intense battle that came down to the last second. When the Falcons chose Gunter for their season opener, everyone knew tensions were going to be high. 

“I was excited for the first football game, and revenge was definitely the first thing on my mind,” junior running back Wayne Shanks said. 

However, the pressure leading up to the game wasn’t just on the players — the entire school appeared to carry the weight of expectation.

“Having a loud crowd is especially important in these early games, and if we get one I think we will do great,” sophomore safety Keen Robertson said.

By the time Thursday night rolled around, the bleachers were packed. 

 The sound of the “Star Spangled Banner” rippled across the stadium. Fans waved signs, purple and gold painted faces grinned, and the crowd roared with the kind of energy that could only come from months of waiting. 

As the first quarter began, the Falcons’ blood, sweat and tears that had shed this summer were finally paying off. The Falcons scored the first touchdown. 

However, Gunter came to play as well. Both teams went back and forth in a high-scoring first quarter. In the end, Gunter came out on top with a 49-44 win. 

Even though the Falcons didn’t get the outcome they deserved, the fans did. They got to support their team, and show out for their school. 

“I was disappointed that we lost, but cheering and hanging out with my friends was definitely the highlight of my week,” sophomore Rashard Lewis said.