Community members recently had the chance to put a face with a name for Thomas County Central High School fall athletes.

On Thursday, Aug. 13, the Thomas County Athletics Boosters club put on “Night at the Nest,” an event where people could come out to the football stadium and meet all the school’s fall sports athletes.

“We have really been looking at ways to boost spirit among our fan base, and get them excited about the upcoming fall season,” booster club president Kyle Shaver said.

During “Night at the Nest” all fall athletes – including football, cheerleading, cross country, and softball – were introduced to the public. Then, after all the teams had been presented, the field was opened to the public so it could mingle with the athletes.

For example, kids could come on the field to get signatures and talk with the athletes.

“Having all those little kids come up to me and seeing their eyes light up is the best feeling in the world,” senior football player Zack Johnson said.

After the kids mingled with the athletes, the field was closed again for the Thomas County Central Marching Yellow Jacket Band to perform its halftime routine for the fans.

“We performed part of our halftime and pre-game show to give the fans a preview of what they can expect to be the best performance by the Thomas County Central marching band yet,” member Justin Barfield said.

Organizers say the night was a success.

“We really didn’t know what to expect in terms of the turnout, but we could not have asked for a better crowd,” Shaver said.