Friday night lights isn’t the only time NAHS football steps into the spotlight. A massive billboard, on one of Atlanta’s busiest roads, and a brand new magazine dedicated entirely to the team are just two examples of how the Dubs are getting more attention than ever before. From students beginning to brag about their team being front and center on Northside Parkway, to proud football players finally earning the recognition they deserve, it’s clear NAHS football is ready to make its mark.
The Dubs are hard to miss these days, literally. With a towering billboard near Atlanta’s favorite OK Cafe and I-75, the billboard features four standout players: Josh McCullough, Bryce Willingham, Jack Ellenburg, and Sebastian Myles. “North Atlanta” boldly stretches across the background as the faces of the four NAHS players are layered on top of it. This clearly highlights the support the school has gained. For McCullough, a senior tight end, being featured on something this big and visible is unforgettable. “It’s an honor to be on the billboard,” he said. “I think it’s really cool that it’s in an area where so many people can see it.”
Along with the billboard, a new football-exclusive magazine was created to highlight each part of the program. From star players to coaches, the magazine emphasizes the making of a successful team with four main points: hard work, dedication, and willingness to put in time. The magazine highlights loyal local supporters of the program, including action shots of players from previous games. For senior quarterback Ryan Edwards, it’s meaningful to see the extra attention the magazine will bring. “It’s great that people who might not get to play on Friday nights but still contribute to the team during the week get highlighted in the magazine,” he said.
Students across campus have noticed the increased support for football; many see it as a big win for the school. These new additions to football PR have propelled school spirit to an all-time high, sparking even more excitement for the season. Sophomore Addison Dressler thinks the recognition goes beyond just football and brings attention to the school as a whole. “It’s really good for the school that the football team is getting more attention,” she said. “The billboard is in a spot where other schools can see it too, which I think is great.”
As the season continues, the buzz around the Dubs shows no signs of fading. Between the billboard and the magazine, football is getting more recognition across the city and within the school. Although the spotlight might be relatively new, the support for the Dubs has always shone bright.
