Catoctin Families Rally to “Fill the Hill” for Football Season

Alisha Yocum

With its sweeping views and signature hillside overlooking the field, Catoctin High School’s (CHS) football stadium has long been a local landmark. This season, football moms Jenn Cregger, Kathleen Davis, Kate Gray, Diana Merritt, and Elle Smith are launching a spirited campaign to “Fill the Hill.”

“We have an awesome community, and we would love to see everyone come together to support the football team, cheerleaders, and the band. In the past, when the boys did well in the playoffs, we have had a great turnout, and the atmosphere is electric! It would be so fun to have that every home game!” said Gray.

The idea took shape after new Head Coach Brady Ridenour recalled his favorite memory from the 2009 State Championship: Looking up to see the hill packed with cheering fans. With Ridenour beginning his first season as head coach, it only seems fitting to bring back that support.

To keep that energy alive, several themed nights are planned throughout the season and there are several special events planned for the home games, including Homecoming on September 26, CYA Youth Football & Cheer Night on October 3, Pink Out in support of Breast Cancer on October 10, and Senior Night on October 31.

All games start at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.00 per adult. Students (7+) are $2.00. Fans may also want to consider a season pass, which is available for $107 for adults and $44 for students. Seniors (60+) and children under 7 get free admission, as well as Frederick County Public School employees with their badge.

Admission is cashless, and tickets can be purchased online at GoFan.com or with a debit or credit card at the gate.

Of course, Friday night lights isn’t just about seeing the boys of fall, it’s also for the pump-up music of the band and those catchy chants from the cheerleaders. In addition, the Catoctin High School Boosters offers a full concession stand, which is one of their biggest fundraisers for the year and benefits all CHS sports. For those cold nights, they will even have you covered with coffee, hot chocolate, and hand warmers.

As the Cougars kick off their season with the home opener on September 7, fans are encouraged to make Friday nights a tradition. Grab your blanket, find a spot on the hill, and help create an unforgettable atmosphere for CHS football players, cheerleaders, band, and color guard.