Texas six-man football goes beyond just scores and victories, serving as a significant cultural identity.
In the small town of Marfa, Texas, Friday nights in the fall are a special time. The Marfa High School football team, known as the Shorthorns, take to the field for a unique version of the game known as six-man football.
Garry Webb, a high school senior, transferred from a neighbouring district with a small student body to Marfa. He found a community on the field and in the stands. For Webb, playing under Friday night lights feels like the world is watching, not the entire world, but their world.
The game is distinct and fast-paced, with no boring seconds. Field goals are worth four points instead of three, and getting a first down requires 15 yards instead of 10. The game is played on a shorter and narrower field compared to traditional American-style football.
Lori Flores, a Marfa alumna, expresses concern that the school's student population may decrease to the point where they can no longer field a six-man team. However, for the district's interim superintendent, Arturo Alferez, Friday night games help pass on school traditions in Marfa.
The school is often the hub for the community during these games. Alferez shares that the community gathers to trade stories during Friday night games. At six-man football games, the school's cheerleaders and a mascot named "Bull-ette" lead the crowd in chants.
The six-man football game is considered part of the culture of small-town Texas and is like an identity for the community. There is a mercy rule that ends the game if a team is ahead by 45 points or more. Despite this, there are no specific reports this year about any Texas schools suspending their football season due to insufficient players.
Six-man football brings people together, even those who may disagree on other issues. Alferez mentions that Friday night games help pass on school traditions in Marfa, and Webb expresses that he had to experience it. Flores mentions that she, her parents, and children all attended the school.
In small towns, the school is often the hub for the community, especially during Friday nights in the fall. The game of six-man football is a source of pride and unity for the town of Marfa. It's a rite of passage for players like Garry Webb, and a tradition that the community cherishes.
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