Friday Night Lights and a Tribute to the 9/11 Fallen

It was a standing-room only crowd as the Agoura High School Chargers played Ventura High School in their home opener on Friday night. The stands were packed with families, students and kids from the community who came out to cheer on the home team.

The game was played in honor of the victims of 9/11, and the players took the field before the game in a solemn procession. A moment of silence was then observed in honor of the fallen. Afterward, Natalie Fersht, a senior, sang a beautiful rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner," which was warmly received.

"It means a lot to sing to be able to sing tonight," said Fersht. "Especially because my cousin is a Marine, and he just got back from Afganistan, so I'm really happy that I get to represent the people fighting for our country."

The game was also attended by members of our local fire department, and there was a half-time dedication and dance performance by the Agoura High School Dance team. Twin beacons of light were aimed skyward to symbolize the fallen towers of the World Trade Center. 

Many people consider attending a Charger game their go-to Friday night activity, and that was the case for the Pitts family of Agoura.  , "I am here to support the community," said Babette Pitts. "My sons play for the Charger Youth program, and they wanted to be here."

Coming out to the games is a great way for the community to support the high school, as the proceeds from the Snack Shack are used to help fund many of the athletic programs.

Despite their best efforts, the Chargers lost their opening home game 0-38.