I left work and ventured east on I-10 towards Exit 104, looking forward to my Friday Night football experience in Vernon, Florida.
I rolled into this small rural town and out of the blue a stadium came into view. Not a big stadium by any means; but none the less, the Yellowjackets call this place home for 4-5 regular season games each year.
I walked to the ticket window and was greeted with a very warm smile. As my name was on the guest list; I felt like a celebrity for a very brief moment. This small town opened their doors to me and made me feel right at home!
While walking into the stadium, I ran into Bruce Robinson, Rob Holley and Principal Brian Riviere; the ones that extended the invitation to come over to Vernon for their game against Chipley (a rivalry that has been going on for 58 years).
The Yellowjackets got on the board quickly behind touchdown runs of 88 and 43 yards by their junior sensation RB K’wan Powell. He electrified the crowd with his combination of speed, power and finesse and finished the night with 146 yards rushing on just 3 carries.
This team overwhelmed their opponents from Chipley and took a 34-0 lead to the half; eventually winning 46-8 to improve to 3-1 on the season.
After the game, I was introduced to Head Coach Gerald Tranquille, and congratulated him on the victory.
You ask, is the small town Friday Night Football experience any different than at the bigger programs…the answer is an emphatic, no! They have the same pride for their school and their community.
I will let you in on a little secret…they really love their Jackets!