It’s 7 p.m. on a Friday night, and the intensity level at Dave Pavlansky Field in Poland is at a fever pitch. The Poland Bulldogs are set to take on league rival South Range in one of the most anticipated area games of the season.
Kickoff ensues, and as the rest of the stadium erupts in excitement, Poland athletic director Brian Banfield breathes a sigh of relief.
Another strategically planned football Friday night is underway, and while Banfield’s night is far from over, a huge burden is lifted.
“Once that ball is kicked, the game is in the hands of the officials,” Banfield said. “I’m going to still be in constant contact with game workers. I’m still going to be on guard for the unexpected. But in terms of preparation, it’s now over and done with. For me, the game itself is the easy pa