Friday Night Lights: High school football returns

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The rain was torrential, the air frigid and there’s a global pandemic. None of that was going to stop Frances Massey from seeing her grandson’s game for West Mecklenburg High School.

“I am coming regardless,” Massey said. “I live in Concord. I work in Mooresville, and I am here. I am my grandson’s number one fan.”

[NC curfew lifted, other COVID-19 restrictions eased: Here’s what has changed]

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools crowd restrictions remained in place for the game between West Meck and Providence High School. A maximum of 100 fans could have attended if they wished, but the rain likely kept many away.

Not Massey, though, and she was determined to bring the noise.

“When he makes a touchdown, you’ll see me because I will say, ‘That’s my grandson!’” Massey said.

She will hardly be alone in the weeks to follow. Gov. Roy Cooper announced this week that more people can attend games across the state, allowing 30% capacity at outdoor stadiums.

Starting in March, CMS will allow up to 500 fans at each football game. The home team will have 300, and the away team can have 200. The news was well received.

“I am excited to be back,” Keisha Barringer, a West Meck fan, said. “I am ready to watch the boys play football.”

“I’m glad my wife could see the game instead of having to watch online,” parent Osei Kenney said.

The rain Friday night didn’t stop the players, and a limited capacity couldn’t keep Massey from having fun.

“I don’t care if they win or lose,” she said. “I am their number one fan.”

[LINK: CMS Athletics Livestream]

NC curfew lifted, other COVID-19 restrictions eased: Here’s what has changed

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