Kenny Chesney sang, "When I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass, I'm back in my helmet, cleats and shoulder pads. Standing in the huddle listening to the call, fans going crazy for the boys of fall. They didn't let just anybody in that club, took every ounce of heart and sweat and blood. To get to wear those game day jerseys down the hall, kings of the school - man, we're the boys of fall," in reference to his memories as a football player in high school.
Now, for the first time in the school's 25 years of existence, John Paul II will march a football team onto the field next fall and create their own football memories.
Talk about creating a football program at John Paul II has been on and off for years and John Paul II principal Carlo Hanson confirmed serious discussion and research went into developing a program last summer for the next school year.
"There is a ton of interest in the school from the students," said Hanson, who added the program is coming together quickly.
Not all the coaches are officially in place, but Bruce Yockey will be the head coach of the team. He, along with other staff members, will be heading to Regina for a football coaching clinic April 8.
Along with the coaches coming forward, the equipment and uniforms are going to be ordered this week and a spring camp will be held to introduce the school, coaches and players to what high school football is all about.
Hanson said there will be a huge learning curve for everyone, but the creation of a football team is something all of John Paul II appears to be embracing and excited about.
The John Paul II Crusaders will join the Northwest Nine Man Football League, which includes Unity, Delisle, Kindersley, Meadow Lake, Martensville and Warman and they will share Beaver Lions Stadium with the North Battleford Comprehensive High School Vikings football teams.
As more details with the team are confirmed, John Paul II plans to have an unveiling of the uniforms and rally for the new school sport.
