The local high school football season began in earnest Friday night, with a match-up between Griffin High School and Spalding High School.

We only have one question. How come it took so long for football season to get here?

Baseball may be the national pastime, but football — at the high school, college and pro levels — seems to generate its share of passionate fans.

Because each game can make or break a high school team’s season, each Friday night brings with it an intense atmosphere that players, coaches and fans should savor.

We hope the players understand that they can learn lessons that will help them in the future. Persistence, teamwork and hard work pay off not only on the field, but in real life, too.

Players learn what it feels like to win, and what it feels like to lose. That, in itself, is good preparation for the future, as life brings a series of wins and losses for all of us.

A show of community support for each of our local teams would be nice to see. Where else can you find better entertainment at a lower price on a late-summer or autumn night? Even if you’re not a serious football fan, the atmosphere is worth the price of admission.

We wish the best for all of our local teams — Griffin High, Spalding High, Griffin Christian High, Skipstone Academy and Faith Christian Academy.

See you under the lights.

THE GRIFFIN DAILY NEWS