Eagles fans of Abilene Texas walked out of the San Antonio Alamodome Saturday with smiles on their faces and joined Katy fans with Christmas in their hearts.
After all, their beloved team had just won the high school state championship for 5A Division II UIL competition. It was their first state championship since 1956.
"I have been waiting for this win for over 50 years," said Carl Hurnbull, as he rode in a load full of spectators in a trolley going back towards central downtown. "This was a worthwhile trip".
"Yes, but what about that Katy band," asked a lady, identified as Helen. "Wasn't that about the best half-time show you have ever seen?"
Suddenly most everyone on the trolley joined in.
"I was just thinking that," replied Hurnbull's wife, Marty. "I don't think I have seen one any better."
Later, at the Original Mexican Restaurant on the River Walk another group discussed the same subject. It was a combination of Abilene and Katy fans standing in line at the crowded 24-hour cafe.
"Of course I am sad we lost, but with all these lights (on the River Walk) and that music and performance at the game, I really feel like Christmas," said a lady dressed in red (Katy's color).
"Oh, that was an awesome band," said an Abilene female patron. "My husband and I were just talking about how great that was."
"It was the best half time show I have ever seen," agreed her husband.
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The comments above were common as fans from both teams walked out the Alamodome and held conversations through Sunday.
The marching band alone, with their merry Christmas and holiday music, would have been enough to please the crowd of over 40,000 in the dome. But the dance team, cheerleaders and Tiger mascot joined in with a few surprise guests.
Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, Nutcracker Solider, pajama clad children, and a cast of Santa-hatted elves brought their own portions of props to mid field to fit together into a giant Christmas stage.
Characters and dancers popped in and out of the stage in unison to the festive music. Dancing reindeer, children and other holiday characters entertained.
Cheerleaders choreographed an excellent cheer and dance routine beautifully coordinated with the band, led by the Tiger. A sea of red and white dominated the green field.
"I've been going to high school and college football games for many years," said one 60ish gentleman dressed in black and gold (Abilene colors) and that was by far the best half-time ever.
The band had started out for a roll check at their Tiger Stadium in Katy at 10 a.m. Saturday. With uniforms, instruments and Santa hats in hand, the band members arrived in San Antonio about 2 p.m. to see the River Walk and a meal at Rio Rio Retaurant at 3:15.
By 6:15 the band marched into the Alamodome ready to play their school and fight songs. Despite Abilene's win, it was clear to thousands they were winners because of Katy's historical half-time performance.
Comments
The half time show was FANTASTIC!!! The girls did such a great job with their routine and you could tell that they had a wonderful time preforming it.
I'm glad the Abilene fans enjoyed the Christmas halftime show. It feels like we got two for the price of one. I just want to congratulate the Abilene Eagles they were a great team. They were a class act. We partied with some fans after the game. It's nice how fans from differrent schools can play a big game and be classy and hang out with the other fans. Good job Katy we will be back next year.
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