(Summary: Friday night football in rural Missouri exists as more than just a game on a field. The contradictions surrounding the celebration of a game that causes concussions and injuries while reinforcing gender roles also serves as the center of social life for high schoolers. This essay takes place while everyone else stares at the field, spotlighting the relationships, reactions, moments and memories unfolding in the in the dimmer corners of the stadium.) — The Father Tolton High School cheerleaders wave to the crow during pre-game cheers before Tolton plays St. Francis Borgia High School. This was Tolton’s first home game of the season.

Tristen Rouse/Missourian