With the addition of Katy ISD's new Legacy Stadium, football season is bound to be unforgettable in 2017. Here's some hometown advice on how to enjoy the game.
By Ashley Lancaster & Tanya Erickson | KATY MAGAZINE, September 2017 Opening photo by John Glaser
1. Buy Tickets in Advance If you're a first-time parent of a player, band member, or student on one of the spirit squads, it's probably best to invest in season passes. For all other spectators, your best bet is to purchase from the school's athletic booster club prior to the game, especially for rivalry games, homecoming, Parent's Night, etc. Tickets are available for purchase at the gate; but we don't recommend waiting until the day of the game.
2. Arrive Early
High school football is a way of life in Texas, and not very many people show up after kick off. Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to game time to map out where you'd like to sit and get your food, drinks, etc. before the game starts.
INSIDER TIP: Band and drill teams usually set up in the lower section near the 30 yard line, and students love to be in front and right on the 50 so unless you want to be surrounded by enthusiastic teens, choose your seat accordingly.
3. Wear Spirit Colors You can find high school spirit wear at Academy, Brammer’s, most grocery stores, and other places around Katy. Don’t forget the pom-poms and megaphones.
INSIDER TIP: If you aren’t wearing school colors, you will stick out like a sore thumb. You were warned.
4. Learn the Lingo
Knowing your school's spirit chants, songs, and traditions helps bring people together in the stands.
5. Know Who's Who on the Field
Games are much more fun to watch when you know what's at stake. Brush up on each team's record, key players, and offensive and defensive strategies before kickoff, and you'll be hooked.
6. Watch the Halftime Show
Katy ISD's award-winning band, drill team, and color guard programs always do their best to put on an exciting halftime routine that changes from week to week. Support them by watching and giving them a shout.
7. Beware of "Trolls"
Our district has always kept a legacy of kindness and sportsmanship, but occasionally you'll find a troll in the stands who gets a little too loud. Our advice - go deaf and keep it positive always - football in Texas is FUN!
8. Know the Rules Some rules of attending Katy ISD football games are fairly straightforward, like not allowing outside food and drinks.
INSIDER TIP: One important rule you'll need to know is if you plan on carrying a purse or bag into a professional stadium for a playoff game (like NRG), it must be clear or transparent in order to be allowed into the field. Wallets, small clutch bags, keys, etc. can be taken alone if they fit in your pocket. NRG Stadium Policies - Clear Bag Rule.
9. Prepare for Extreme Weather In Texas, it can go from dry to downpour in the blink of an eye. Always bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, and bug spray.
INSIDER TIP: Carry a portable poncho if it calls for rain. These are great and don't block the view of the people behind you.
10. Bring Cash for Concessions No food is allowed inside the stadiums and the games are approximately two hours long, but basic concession food is available. As an added bonus, Chick-fil-A is now offered at many games.
ASHLEY LANCASTER is the digital editor for Katy Magazine who remembers watching football games on the grass slopes at Rhodes Stadium as a kid.
TANYA ERICKSON is a writer and sports-enthusiast who lives in Katy.
If you've got another great tip, post it in the comments below.
* Visit katyisd.org and find the athletics page for more information on how to purchase tickets for the upcoming season.