Chelsea Strutton

Writer

With the support of the community behind them, the Marlow High School football team played their first game of the season on Friday, Sept. 4 against the Chickasha Chicks.

With an ending score of 24-21, the Marlow Outlaws succeeded in their goal of beating their rival who they have not been successful in defeating in 26 years.

A win for all the organizations involved, the football team’s success was a result of the countless hours of work that each group contributed towards the making of the first game.

From the cheerleaders and bootleggers on the sidelines to the band and student section in the stands, the team was able to feel the energy of their high school on the Chickasha football field.

Even prior to the game, the hallways of Marlow High were full of spirit.

With the theme of the game being “building up champions one game at a time,” the school hallways were decorated with signs made by the MHS Bootleggers, and many students showed school spirit by wearing construction gear and neon-colored clothing.

However, the students were not the only contributors towards the night’s many successes.

Having endured hours of summer and after school practices, the football team was more than prepared to take on their competitors and play with all their might.

With a tough beginning, the boys played hard while their opponents took the lead into halftime with a score of 7-0.

Returning to the field with the strong Outlaw mindsets they are known for, they made a quick comeback and took the lead in the fourth quarter when senior quarterback and safety Blake Harris made a touchdown.

Leading the team to success both on and off the field is Coach Matt Weber.

When asked what he feels are the strongpoints of the team that aided in their first win of the season, Weber credited their many practices and the calm mindsets of the team.

“We are in better shape, our defense is strong and we chase the football well,” stated Weber. “Our kids also never panic. We were down in the game a couple times, and we were calm knowing that we’re not going to quit, and it ended up working out for us.”

Throughout the entirety of the game, the stands were full of energy due to the intensity of the competition and the students who put their full effort into making the team’s success possible.

The soundtrack to each football game, the Pride of Outlaw Country Marching Band provided the team with support through their bold and passionate love for music.

With summer and daily practices as well, the band works hard to stand in the stadium each Friday night to perform in front of their community.

From reviewing marching fundamentals and beginning to practice new music, the Marlow High School Band is determined to make the season memorable through their strong abilities to bring enjoyment to the community.

The Pride of Outlaw Country Drumline is unique to the band based on the fact that they devote an extra hour outside of school each Tuesday during football season to prepare for games.

Lead snare on the drumline, junior Cooper Brooks is an inspiration to his peers through his determination to lead his section.

Brooks explained what he feels are the strongpoints of the drumline and band this season.

“The drum line is very strong on the cadences, as that is the focal point of what we do,” stated Brooks. “The band has songs such as ‘Seven Nation Army’ that bring the excitement the fans and team need.”

Under the direction of Band Director Billy Daniel, the students made a strong first impression of the season with their large size and high energy.

Noting the key characteristics the students are known for, Daniel spoke about the band’s performance at the game.

“I felt great about their performance!” Daniel continued, “They brought a ton of energy with them and lit up the field with sound. They had a huge sound for the first game, and I’m excited to see what they do the rest of the year.”

Working alongside the Band each Friday night to support their favorite team are the Marlow High School Cheerleaders and Bootleggers.

Along the sidelines of each game, the girls keep the crowd lively through dance routines and chants that help the players know just how much their hometown loves to see them play each Friday night.

Having been on both sides of the sidelines, sophomore Karlee Harrison is dancing as a Bootlegger this year, has experience as a cheerleader and also plays in the high school band at halftime during home games.

Building her resume at Marlow High, Harrison knows exactly what it feels like to be an Outlaw through the various activities she has been involved in.

When asked about what she has learned from being involved in the three activities, Harrison noted the importance of each one.

“I have learned that all three of the organizations are really important to the school,” explained Harrison. “It’s so awesome being involved in them and being recognized! I have learned I love being able to experience all the cool things they do and making memories at school!”

With the first win of the season behind them, each individual that contributes towards the making of Friday nights is determined to keep the season memorable through hard work in their organizations that fuel the distinguished Outlaw energy our community is known for.

The MHS Football Team will play their next game on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:00 p.m. against the Anadarko Warriors at the Warrior Stadium in Anadarko.