On Friday night high school football was back in action, and the anticipation for a new season was met with pure excitement as the energy was through the roof at McQueen High School. 

The McQueen Lancers played host to the Nevada Division 2 5A Champions of 2024-2025, the Bishop Manogue Miners. 

Fans, family members, students, cheerleaders, the band - everyone in the stands was absolutely ready for football to be back. Both the home and away bleachers were filled up with each team's respective supporters. 

The student section's chants and cheers could be heard all throughout the area as they rooted for their teams.

One of the students we spoke to, Konnor Mejia, talked about the importance of starting the season off right. 

"It's absolutely important, coming out for the first game," he said. "Everyone's got to get up, everyone's got to be here. It really sets the tone for the rest of the game, and it says for the rest of the season, we're here."

But the night wasn't just about the game, as the community coming together to support their school with pride was just as important.

Parents getting to cheer on their kids and create an environment that feels like family. McQueen High School parent Tracy Moore says, "It goes back to a family. You know, it's like we're all family members here. We didn't know each other until we became parents, coaches, it's just family taking care of family. Everybody supports each other. So, we do. We come out, support each other."

Their support could be seen in the community they create, the energy they give, and in Moore's case, the food they prepare for the fans to enjoy. 

Bishop Manogue defeated their non-conference rivals McQueen 36-29 in a thrilling and close battle. We are excited to see more of these teams throughout the season.Â