Head to toe in neon, students shouted and cheered from the stands on Sept 5. Flashlights beamed together, and chants echoed through the night. The Fluco fans were ready to rumble.
The Fluco student section is a popular place to hang out with fellow fans and cheer on the FCHS football team. The section is easily recognizable in the stands, considering that students are encouraged to follow a theme in each game. The themes include anything from camo to pink (to support breast cancer research) to bright neon.
Although students seem to enjoy following the themes, there’s more to being in the student section. The section can provide an inclusive and inviting environment, as the constant cheering and upbeat mood create a welcoming social gathering for fellow Fluco fans.
“The student section makes me feel excited and part of a community. I love school spirit, and I love fostering an environment where people feel included. The student section is a place where everyone can participate and not be scared of judgment,” said senior Mia Dixon.
Students in the stands may luck out and get a brand new shirt from Athletic Director Scott Morris, who shoots Fluco-themed shirts out of the t-shirt cannon each game. Others can purchase t-shirts, hats, and other items featuring the Fluco logo by going to this site.
Another moment during football games that students tend to look forward to is when TV Production teacher David Small takes videos of the student section to post on Instagram.
“I like how the students organize this section and stay involved. Even when our Flucos are down, the students are always there to stay upbeat and to cheer on our Flucos,” said Small. Themes and plans for games are run through the student Instagram account Flucobarstool, which is run by Mia Dixon and Henry Jefferies.
The main goal of the fall student section is to hype up the football team. The cheering and chants can motivate the team to do its best.
“My favorite part about the student section is how loud they get. It just gives us so much momentum and energy, and that helps us play better,” said FCHS varsity football player Jack Pace.
Though the section positively affects the football team, it also pumps up the cheer team.
“I love when the student section is there and loud. It brings up the energy of everyone, the team, the crowd, and even us (the varsity cheer team). They bring such a good, fun atmosphere to Friday Night Lights, and everyone feeds off of their energy. I also love the themes because they bring another fun aspect to the games,” said FCHS varsity cheerleader Sophia Pace.
Even when you can’t make a game, you can stay current with the latest FCHS sports events by going to flyingflucos.org. The site features multiple sports schedules and rosters, dates for upcoming games, links to purchase Fluco merchandise, and info on joining a Fluco sports team. You can even access live game streams and purchase tickets to upcoming games.
