Game day in Stillwater means one thing: the halls become a sea of red. In every hour sits a classmate emblazoned in the Ponies color counting down the minutes until kick off. Sep. 2, marked the Ponies Varsity team’s first football game of the season and a significant game for the veteran seniors as it was their final first game under the Ponies banner. 

An overcast sky spelt encroaching rain as volunteers and community members prepared for the stadium's impending game. “Let’s blow these speakers out if we can do it,” one of the volunteers yelled up to the music booth Back in Black by AC/DC began to blare through the speakers.

The air was buzzing with anticipation as supporters began to gather at the entrance of the stadium. Fans and family alike dressed in Hawaiian shirts and sun hats, reflecting the “beach out” theme set by SAHS’s student council.  The student section streamed into the bleachers with beach balloons and umbrellas, all intent on supporting their favorite players. Families took to the field in celebration of Parent Night, side-by-side with their players during the national anthem. 

The game began with the coin toss, where the Captains, Eddie O'Keefe, Conner McCormick, Mason Wilson and Jayden Leach were able to determine who would kick off. First quarter began with Stillwater kicking off and the battle began. 

The weather forecast proved incorrect as the rain began to fall earlier than expected, but the players were nothing short of elated.

 “This is football weather, girl!” Wilson exclaimed. As the rain came down steadily, the first quarter ended with no score. Coaches and players alike huddled together to discuss what strategy, while the stands became a sea of miss-matched umbrellas. 

As the game entered the second quarter, the scoreboard stood empty until late in the quarter when Stillwater’s offense found a way into the endzone. The sidelines were alight with celebration as quarterback Max Shikenjanski was able to sneak a touchdown from the 1-yard line. 

Halftime was a celebration of Stillwater students, both current and past. The Stillwater Chevals dance team gave a lively returning performance much to the appreciation of the student section who roared their approval. Not even the frigid rain could dampen their spirits. 

The Ponies launched themselves back into the third quarter with the same aggressive energy they had upheld throughout the game. Centennial had yet to put points on the board which lended to their growing confidence.  

“This is our game,” shouted numerous players, as the game commenced.  

Fourth quarter ended in celebration as great defense denied Centennial’s continued push for a touchdown. The Cougars remained unsuccessful as Stillwater’s defense kept them out of the end zone. The game ended with a 7-0 score, giving the Ponies their first victory of the season. 

Students flooded the field in celebration of the teams first win. Family and friends alike stood on the field with the players as the night finally came to an end. It is important to note this win would not have been possible without Stillwater’s stonewall defense. With the Ponies scoring a touchdown in the second quarter, the game shifted to a clash of strategies between the two teams. This game can only be classified as a hard fought battle. Every player gave it their all and brought home a win for their efforts.