In the heart of Manatee High School, the student section known as “The Surge” embodied what school spirit is during their first 4 home games of the season, with only 1 away game in the middle of it. The Hurricanes will not return to Joe Kinnan Field at Hawkins Stadium until October 20th against Riverview High School in Manatee’s homecoming game. The themes of the first 4 home games were red out, navy night, neon night, and surge night.
The theme of the first home game was “Red Out,” and The Surge did not disappoint. Decked out in a sea of crimson, they chanted, cheered, and waved their homemade banners. The energy in the stadium was electric, and it fueled the Hurricanes to a thrilling win, with the final score leaving IMG seeing red.
The following week, the opponent was Charlotte High School. The theme for this game was “Neon Night.” The Surge transformed the stands into a dazzling display of neon colors. Glow sticks, neon face paint, and even neon wigs illuminated the night. The team played with an electrifying vigor that matched the crowd’s vibrant attire. The result? Another victory that left Charlotte seeing stars.
As the season progressed, the Hurricanes faced Braden River High School, and it was time for “Navy Night.” The Surge donned sailor hats, anchor tattoos, and navy-blue outfits, transforming the stands into a sea of blue. The team sailed through the game with determination, just like the sailors of old, and they emerged victorious, sending Braden River back downstream.
The continuance of this remarkable season was the game against Sarasota High School. It was fittingly dubbed “Surge Night.” The student section wore their traditional Surge gear, a sea of blue and white, showing off their undying school spirit. The team, inspired by the support of The Surge, played their hearts out. It was a hard-fought battle, but in the end, the Hurricanes prevailed, and the sailors fell before the relentless power of The Surge.
Manatee looks to carry their momentum against Port Charlotte on September 22nd, followed by two more away games until they finally make it back home. Manatee is on for a road trip, but it would be a surprise to no one if they came back to Hawkins Stadium STILL undefeated!!
