For the first time in 75 years, football returned to the Crane School District - not because of a district mandate or budget windfall, but because one local organization refused to let the dream die.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Crane Youth Sports (CYS), led by Luke Vaught, the Pirates' Junior High football team has officially taken the field. What began as a small flag football program and Mighty Mites league for grades K–6 has grown into a historic milestone for Crane athletics.

The program exists today entirely because of volunteerism, donations, and grassroots fundraising. Over the past few years, CYS has worked relentlessly to build support - from running raffles and merchandise sales to volunteering at concerts through Thunder Ridge and securing local sponsorships. Their commitment ultimately convinced the Crane School Board to approve a partnership that brought football back without creating an immediate financial burden on the district.

The long-awaited debut finally arrived this week as the Pirates hosted the Lighthouse Christian Chargers for the first Junior High football game in school history. More than 500 fans packed the sidelines, with students, parents, alumni, and community members uniting to witness the start of a new era.

While the Pirates fell 48–8 in their inaugural game, the energy on the field and in the crowd made it clear: this was about more than a score. The team fought hard until the end, with the highlight coming late in the game when #26 Kendrick Bass broke through for Crane's first touchdown of the modern era.

“This is just the beginning,” said one Pirates football fan. “We've been building toward this moment for years, and seeing the kids finally out there, representing Crane, makes it all worth it.”

With their first-ever home game behind them - and the only home matchup of the short season - the Pirates now hit the road. Their next game is Tuesday, September 9th, when they travel to face the Joel E. Barber Buckskins in Lebanon.

Crane’s football journey is just getting started, but one thing is certain: after 75 years, the Friday night lights are finally back - and this time, the entire community is behind the Pirates.

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