Quiet. Calm. Tranquil. These are words that can be used to describe anything but Saint Augustine High School’s boisterous crowd of enthusiastic fans on the thrilling night of Friday, October 19^th when they gathered for the annual Holy Bowl football game with arch-rival Cathedral Catholic Dons.

Filled to near maximum capacity, the Saint’s side of the Mesa College football stadium screamed with thunderous excitement, continuous words of encouragement spewing from the mouths of moms and dads cheering on their loved ones. The top award for best cheering, however, goes to the lively and rowdy student section.

Endearingly known as “The Pit,” the Saints’ student section rallies up its football players each and every game with deafening and spirited cheers and chants. The Pit is organized by class – seniors in the front, juniors behind them, sophomores next, and the few willing freshmen sprinkling the back of the pack.  Mid-way through the annual gridiron face-off last Friday, a player yelled up to The Pit, “We need you!” a testament to The Pit’s importance and impact upon the team.

The students in The Pit were relentless and faithful in support of their beloved Saints; after each touchdown, The Pit exploded with cheers; after penalties, it shouted words of encouragement despite obvious disappointment. With few quiet moments and persistent enthusiasm up to the game’s final play, The Pit was the place to be for fans who wanted to show support for their team.

While this year’s game ended in a loss on the scoreboard for the Saints, you would not have known it for the unwavering and faithful support of The Pit.