Energy ramps up under the Friday night lights as high school football returns for the season

 

FRANKLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- It's officially high school football season.

Teams across Wisconsin battled it out Friday night on the field for the first time this year, bringing back hometown energy to high schools across the state.

One of the most watched games to start the season -- the Franklin High School Sabers against the Catholic Memorial Crusaders. Both teams were undefeated WIAA state champions in 2021, the Sabers in Division I and Crusaders in Division IV.

Friday night’s game ended with the Catholic Memorial Crusaders beating the Franklin Sabers, 34-28.

The energetic game was a triumphant return to a beloved Wisconsin sport.

“Listen to this energy, I mean, it's here. It's the ambiance, it's the game, it's the attitude, it's fun,” said football fan, John Potvien, "This is what it's all about.”

Friday’s game at Franklin High School was reminiscent of pre-pandemic celebration, with many fans saying they were excited to be “back to normal.” It was a special reunion on both sides of the bleachers.

“We're like a family, all the students are like a family here. We gotta make sure we're all together,” said Franklin student, Logan Wolf.

"Going to such a small school, we're such a tight knit community, so everyone comes out,” said Catholic Memorial senior, Noelle Pfankuc.

Friday night high school football remains a true family affair and hometown tradition.

"Everyone comes together and just has a mutual love for all the energy our children put in, the staff, the school,” said Danielle Williams, the mom of a Catholic Memorial player.