Stevens: Tried and true, these are tops in 2011

By Andrew Stevens
Published in Sports on October 28, 2011 8:33 AM

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High school football -- as a fan, player, coach, parent, administrator or sports writer -- can be just as much about the atmosphere on Friday nights as the game itself.

Finding that perfect parking space, smelling the good aromas from a concession stand, an entertaining halftime show and superb crowd participation -- it all works together toward making a memorable game-day experience.

The News-Argus sports department would like to recognize those who make their respective schools shine on Friday nights. The following are the second annual News-Argus football awards:

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Best band

Eastern Wayne

For the second straight year the Warriors' bring home the honor as the area's best marching band. From their eye-catching uniforms, a must-see halftime show and a drum major with more moves than a U-Haul truck, Eastern Wayne's band keeps Little Big Horn rocking.

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Best press box

Princeton

 The press box at the Fred Bartholomew Athletic Complex is spacious and finding an empty seat to cover the Bulldogs is never a problem. A warm welcome can always be expected and a cold drink and a candy bar are never far behind. Multiple spotters armed with binoculars keep everyone informed of what's happening on the field and are always happy to answer a question. Honorable mention: Rosewood, North Duplin.

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Best concession stand

Princeton

The concession stand at Princeton offers everything from pizza to hot dogs, nachos, french fries, popcorn, candy and cold drinks. The one item that separates this concession stand from others in the area -- Chick-Fil-A sandwiches. Honorable mention: Charles B. Aycock, Eastern Wayne.

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Best dressed

Southern Wayne

The Saints' switch to blue helmets with their home blue jerseys and blue pants has a classic, subtle feel that works well together. The logo on the helmets is similar to the one used by the New Orleans Saints and is an upgrade from the plain helmets previously worn by Southern Wayne. This uniform is one the folks in Dudley can be proud of. Honorable mention: Rosewood.

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Best atmosphere

James Kenan

There is not one bad seat anywhere at Bill Taylor Field in Warsaw. Fans dress in their traditional black-and-gold garb and always begin cheering during warm-ups. The crowd has proven to be a valuable 12th man for the Tigers, and definitely gets rockin' when its third down and it wants the defense to make a big play. The public address announcer is top notch and has a great rapport with the fans. The pre-game music isn't too bad, either.

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Best game

Southern Wayne

at Eastern Wayne

Whenever these two archrivals meet, it's an intense contest even if you're playing hopscotch in the street. Kyle Sasser's game-winning field goal capped an incredulous comeback and created yet another memory in this classic rivalry as the Warriors triumphed 17-16 at Little Big Horn.