From the Sidelines: Bryson at Knox City

By Bobbie Brown

What a beautiful day it was for football! My dad and I headed to Knox City to watch their game against Bryson. We arrived early enough to stop at Bud’s Café to have a little dinner. I’ve always wanted to try Bud’s, but I normally don’t stop in until after a game. It’s always been too late. Not today! Buds was full, but we found a seat by the entrance. It was steak and fried catfish night. Of course, we had the catfish! It was pretty fabulous. With our bellies full, we finally made our way to the field.
 
I got my dad set up on the side of the track in his chair and wandered off to find the coaches. I saw Coach Callaway of Knox City and headed in his direction. We had a great conversation about the game against Aspermont the week before. It seems most people in this part of the country played in Hurricane-like conditions with high winds and heavy rain blowing sideways. Four quarters in that type of environment can wear a person down. Last week was Knox City’s homecoming, but because of the less-than-ideal weather, the homecoming festivities would be finished this week. Coach assured me the Greyhounds were ready for the Cowboys tonight.
 
I found Coach Briles coming across the field headed to the dressing room. I introduced myself and exchanged a few words. This was my first time meeting him. Nice guy! The Cowboys looked ready to take the field.
 
The game was a good one. The most interesting thing happened a few minutes into the third quarter. The scoreboard decided it had enough and went totally blank. Knox City sent a few guys out to try and fix it. They carried the stand for the drum major out to the scoreboard and proceeded to work diligently. Meanwhile, the refs kept time on the field. That was the longest quarter in the history of Six-man football. Or maybe it just felt that way because I couldn’t see the time. Bryson played an outstanding third quarter and was only bested by the Greyhounds by two points. The scoreboard never did come back on, but it did begin flickering midway through the fourth quarter. By that time, the Greyhounds had a big lead and ended the game before the quarter expired. Kudos to those who worked so hard trying to bring the scoreboard back to life. It was a valiant effort!
 
I had a great time in Knox City. The people are so gracious and kind. I was met with many smiles. And when I went to get a drink at the concession stand, it was very cold – I really like that! I enjoyed the Homecoming festivities at halftime. They don’t just crown one winner, they crown many for different things. I can’t even begin to list this all because I’ll surely get one wrong. Shoutout to Glen Hill, principal at Knox City. You have some great fans and kids and it was really great talking to you!
 
In a few weeks, we will visit Bryson for a game being hosted there. While I didn’t get to talk to them much, I expect to search out Coach Briles for a good conversation soon. And Bryson, love the girls with the flags! And the cheerleaders wore huge smiles. Hopefully, I will see you all again soon.
 
If you’re ever in Knox City on a Friday, stop at Bud’s for the Catfish special. It’s really good stuff! Until next week (can you believe we’re already going into Week 6!!!), go forward and do GOOD!