SIDELINE SCENE: Week 11 games have added meaning for non-playoff teams

Here’s a message to the seniors for Legacy Charter, Olympia and Ocoee regarding their games this Friday, the final games of their respective seasons — enjoy every second of it.

Playing high school football, especially in a place such as Florida, where the game is essentially a religion, is a privilege. 

Being a part of the “Friday Night Lights” cultural phenomenon is something you’ll remember forever, whether it happens while reminiscing with old teammates in a few years or while happening upon a game as spectator — or as a parent, years later (no need to rush on that one, guys).

All three teams should have a goal for Friday’s contests, and it really shouldn’t have a lot to do with winning. 

That sounds weird to say, even heretical, but what’s really important for these programs is that they feel good about what happens on the field when it’s all said and done. 

Sure, that could include a win, but that’s not a necessity.

Rather, the final game in a season where there is no postseason looming offers a chance to feel like, despite whatever disappointments the season held, it ended on a high note. 

For returning underclassmen, it could provide the motivation needed as they begin their offseason regimen of strength training and conditioning. The motivation of a disappointing season paired with the belief you are capable of doing better can be a powerful tool in an offseason grind that often is as grueling as the season itself.

For seniors, it’s one last chance to feel like you’ve left the program in good shape and made a positive impact on it.

If ever there were a football game that could be bigger than football, it’s the Week 11 contests for programs that aren’t advancing into the postseason. 

For programs that are moving forward, it’s mostly a game to get through without any injuries or without losing to a team they shouldn’t that might rob it of momentum.

But for teams that are playing for the last time in the calendar year, though, it’s a chance to embrace every sports cliche about “leaving it on the field” or “playing every down like it’s your last.” 

For seniors, these statements will have some validity. 

Flag football is plenty of fun, and there are plenty of leagues, especially here in Florida, but finding avenues to play 11-on-11 tackle football are tough to come by.

So, to all the players: Enjoy this final Friday night. Enjoy the marching band, enjoy the cheerleaders and mascot, enjoy your parents and the fans and, most importantly, enjoy those bright “Friday Night Lights.”