Despite the drizzle and threat of rain, there was still an electric atmosphere of excitement for both the boys’ and girls’ football teams at Friday Night Lights.
The event began with a beautiful ceremony from the Pipes and Drums, who kicked off the matches in true Gordon’s spirit. Even as they played the first notes, there was riotous applause – hundreds of supporters had turned up to enjoy the evening. As both games – the boys’ and girls’ U16 teams – began against Hampton and Richmond FC, there was an immense feeling of pride from students, parents and staff who came to watch the games.
Although there were a few close moments where the weather darkened, there were only happy hearts – and stomachs, thanks to the barbeque burgers and sausages sizzling nearby – on display throughout the evening. No matter what happened, both players and supporters kept the energetic atmosphere going, with the latter providing enthusiastic cheering and thunderous applause for both games.
Additionally, I was able to interview two of the players taking part – Jake Jeffery and Eden Kerr. Both played exceptionally well for their team. Here are their thoughts about the event.
Firstly, how have you felt playing at an event as big as Friday Night Lights? When did you really first start getting interested in your sport and what was your training like?
Jake: It felt amazing! I had the privilege to be the captain of the first team – a huge achievement for me especially as I’m only in Year 11, and even better that we all won! I first started getting interested in football when I was about five. I trained quite a lot, and I used to live in America, so when I moved here the training was quite different. But my training mainly focused on technical things like dribbling and passing.
Eden: I was lucky enough to take part in the event on Friday the 7th of November. After speaking to my teammates, we discussed how far girls football has come as a whole, and the event on Friday solidified this for us. We all felt the nerves before entering the game, especially due to the atmosphere on the side lines, and the large turnout of people!
How would you describe the atmosphere of the match when you first started the game in contrast to how you finished? How were you feeling then?
Jake: At the start of the game there was quite a lot of people there, but throughout the game more people started showing up. The atmosphere was amazing, and it was great to have my friends and family supporting me. The team was definitely feeling very excited before the game.
Eden: We felt honoured to be a part of this event, so no matter the outcome, we were grateful to have even been included. Although the final score didn’t turn out in our favour, ending in 3-2 to the opposition, we all felt extremely proud of how we played. Oliwia Kania and Sienna Hegarty both scored two amazing goals, although Oliwia was unable to partake in the whole game due to an injury, she continued to cheer us on from the side lines.
Finally, how do you feel about the general outcome, and what are you looking forward/working on for next game? How’d you find the event?
Jake: My teammates and I feel great about the win as it was most of our first experience of Friday Night Lights. During training we’re going to try to keep improving and preparing for our next game.
Eden: We are all looking forward to our next game, and hope we can bring home a win! Thank you to everyone who came to support us.
A great show of true Gordon’s School spirit!
– Daniella