Friday night lights is everyone’s favorite; however, it couldn’t happen without the chain gang. The lights shine on the players and coaching staff, but there is another team that is illuminated. The chain gang is known as a small group of people that move the first down chains and down markers. Without these people, games couldn’t and wouldn’t happen. So, it’s time to meet the team that is so important to everyone within the stadium.

Calvin Anderson is an economics teacher at Forest Hills Central High School. He has been a member of the chain gang for the varsity football games for years. With plans to retire from teaching after this year, he loves helping out and making contributions to our school. Although he enjoys it, there are some difficult parts to the job. “On the sideline, it’s definitely hard to stay neutral,” Cal said. “I always want to talk to the refs and let them know what I am seeing, but I have to restrain myself.”

Ken George, current English teacher and former varsity basketball coach at FHC, is also a member at the varsity games. Mr. George is always looking for ways to contribute to Ranger Country, and this fall, this is how he’s doing it. His contributions are not going unnoticed.

However, the varsity crew isn’t the only chain gang that needs to be recognized. Junior varsity (JV) football player Brendan Cargill emphasizes the importance and generosity of the parents that donate their time to be the chain gang for JV games. He makes sure to thank them after every game. When asked about the chain gang, Cargill stated, “We really couldn’t play without them.” Cargill emphasizes his appreciation, “If I could say just one thing to them, it would be a simple thank you.” It is clear to the players that these individuals are essential.

There are also two other members of the highly acclaimed team. They are two brothers who both graduated back when there was only one high school in the district and was called Forest Hills High School. These alumni have been serving in the chain gang for numerous years. Like the others, they are good at what they do. They are responsible for the smoothness and flow of the game. Without them, the game would be slow, and it would be difficult for offenses to gain momentum.

Another person thankful for the chain gang is head coach and offensive coordinator Tony Sultini. “I would give more than a thank you,” Sultini said after being asked what he would say to the chain gang. “As an offensive coordinator, they directly impact our offense’s rhythm and flow. If they are slow, we have to wait. If they mess up, we have to stop.” As Sultini emphasized, these individuals deeply impact the game and do more than just move orange markers.

As a program, we are dependent on these guys every game. They are the unseen heroes of game day, and they get rarely get the recognition they deserve. Without them, Friday night lights wouldn’t happen, and players and fans alike would lose out on the enjoyment of the game. From all those in the stands and on the field, FHC thanks you chain gang.