Working on the chain gang

"... that's the sound of the men working on the chain gang."
Sam Cook wasn't writing about the guys who are a part of every football game but the "work" is the best place to watch a football game.
It's also the worst place to watch a football game.
But, it's a very entertaining place to watch a football game.
I'm talking about the chain gang. Those four guys who let everyone know what down it is and how far the team has to go to get a first down.
For the past few years, I've been working the chains for Madison Academy and it has been fun.
You're a part of the game while getting an up-close and personal experience of the sights and sounds of  high school football.
And, boy, are there sounds.
From coaches who don't agree with the referees:
"How in the world did you miss that call?"
"You can't be serious. That was NOT a penalty!"
"What! You can't throw a flag for that! Oh, it was against them? Great call!"
Then there are coaches who are talking to other coaches:
"That's the problem, we're girls playing men."
"Man. He's just too fast for us."
And coaches talking to the players:
"That's the big lick we're looking for."
"Hey! If you don't stick your head in there, I'll put your butt over here!"
"Trust your offense, son."
And, lest we forget, the fans:
"Way to go boys! Great play!"
"Hey ref! (You can fill in the blank)"
"C'mon defense, hit somebody!"
"C'mon offense, block somebody!"
In the meantime, you have to be paying attention on every play because you never know when you will literally be on top of the play ... or under a player, or two, or three ... when the players come crashing, flying or tumbling out of bounds.
Fortunately, our crew - headed by Jimmy Hunt who's been doing it for more than 15 years - has been quick or alert enough to avoid the mass of teen-age humanity rolling out of control across the sideline.
And, speaking of being quick, you may have to sprint downfield at a moment's notice to reset the chains after a big play.
The job lends a perspective that is unique. While there are times you literally have a front-row seat to the action, there are times when you can't see the end of a play because it was downfield along your sidelines.
You may also silently pull for your team while, at the same time, maintaining a professional-like neutrality because of your role.
All in all, it's a fun way to spend a Friday night, working on the chain gang.