Cue the drumline, cheerleaders, hard tackles and Hail Mary’s—Avalon Minor Football’s “Friday Night Lights” under-15 and under-18 tackle football games are set to kick-off this evening at the Diane Whalen Field in Paradise.

Avalon Minor Football, a unique co-ed house-league with around 150 young athletes, stands as the Avalon’s only minor football organization. Now in its fifth year, it’s an affiliate of Football Newfoundland and Labrador, continuing to drive a passion for football among youth.

President, Brian Critch, says tonight’s “Friday Night Lights” games are special, as the event also serves as a fundraiser for the organization, bringing the excitement of American football as seen on tv right to your doorstep.

He says the gates open at 5:00 p.m. with games beginning at 5:30 and running until 10:30 p.m.. There will be an anthem, drumline, mascots, cheerleaders, concessions and prizes—the full football experience.

Critch doesn’t shy away from the preconceptions of football surrounding injuries, as he says theirs are typically minimal and players are provided proper training.

He explains that all coaches are properly trained with both online and hands-on training and each player is given safe contact training before playing a game, or getting into a game-situation.

Avalon Minor Football supplies the bulk of equipment for the athletes who suit up.

Critch says they saw amazing growth in registration, and following a COVID-19 stalemate, the numbers are on the rise again—especially with young girls.

However, Avalon Minor Football is always looking for more kids to start playing. They’re also searching for more volunteers, whether it be coaches, referees, or any help they can get.

Anyone interested can reach out through the Avalon Minor Football Facebook page.