Carrying the Flags and the School Spirit
On Friday nights, the excitement of high school football stretches far beyond the action between the sidelines. For Caleb, Nolan and Tradd, serving as flag runners gives them a special opportunity to represent their school, energize the crowd and help celebrate every big scoring moment.
CALEB became interested in the role after watching friends serve as flag runners in
previous seasons. When he learned volunteers were needed this year, he quickly stepped forward.
“There’s a rush of excitement every time we score, but there is also the responsibility of being there and ready to run the flags,” Caleb said.
For Caleb, the real joy comes from helping make every touchdown, field goal and even safety feel special. His favorite moment so far was the game-winning field goal against Summit. As the crowd erupted, the flag runners helped lead the celebration.
NOLAN’s opportunity came unexpectedly. He was preparing to enjoy a game when Tradd approached him looking for two volunteers. Nolan agreed, thinking it would be a fun way to become more involved. Afterward, he called it one of the best decisions he had made and one of his most enjoyable football-game experiences.
At first, Nolan had two important thoughts as he prepared to run: Don’t run into the cheerleaders, and don’t fall. Once those concerns passed, he began hearing the roar of the crowd and appreciating the opportunity to be part of the action.
Nolan had watched the school’s flag runners for four years without realizing how important their role was. After participating himself, he understood how much they add to the atmosphere and memories created on Friday nights.
TRADD also became interested after speaking with a previous flag runner. The chance to have an outstanding view of the field while showing support for the school sounded too good to pass up.
“I have always thought it was cool to be on the field and run as fast as you can with a flag,” Tradd said. “Now I get the chance to be that person.”
Like Caleb, Tradd’s favorite memory was the winning field goal. By the time the flag runners returned, students were storming the field, and the celebration continued around them.
For all three students, carrying the flags is about more than running down the sideline. It is a reminder that every role matters. By stepping forward, they have found their own memorable way to support their team, represent their school and help turn each scoring play into a celebration.
