A Last Little Big Game

On Saturday, Nov. 12, the Burlingame Panthers will take on the San Mateo Bearcats in the annual Little Big Game.

I had never been one to enjoy high school football. I usually sat in the stands and talked to my friends rather than actually watch the game. I didn’t understand football, but as a Burlingame student I looked forward to the Little Big Game every year.

The friendly rivalry that exists between the two high schools promotes school spirit and truly brings the Burlingame community together, and the Little Big Game is by far the most anticipated sporting event in Burlingame.

The last three years the Little Big Game was one of the only high school football games I attended each season, and for those few hours I would pretend I knew what was going on as I attempted to become accustom to the football culture.

But as a senior, I’m dedicated to take part in more school events.

I have attended every home game this season and stood on the sidelines as a photographer for my school newspaper. The emotions felt on the field were nothing I could’ve experienced sitting in the stands. There was cheering, yelling, cussing and the overwhelming pride both the players and coaches felt for their team whether they won or lost.

I’ve sat through endless Fridays listening to football players discuss their upcoming game, and then debriefing the following Monday. I used to not understand their passion for the game, but now I know that they are a family.

This Saturday will be a different experience for me not only because I understand the game of football, but also because it will be my last Little Big Game as a panther. Although college football games next year will be an entirely new experience that I’m ready for, I will lose the close-knit Burlingame family that surrounds me.

As excited as I am to be graduating this year, it’s the handful of high school moments like these I’m truly going to miss.