So here’s the thing about visiting high school sports spots – they look simple, but man, did I learn some lessons hard way when checking out Clinton High’s field yesterday. Wanted to share my whole adventure plus the don’ts for fellow fans.
The Big Plan & First Mistake
Woke up buzzing thinking “perfect weather for scouting game spots!” Threw on sneakers, grabbed phone and just drove straight there around 3pm. Big error number one. Rolled into lot all proud like I cracked some code only to find like twelve maintenance trucks parked everywhere. Workers giving me that “why you here?” stare. Turns out teams practice till 4:30 weekdays – total ghost town before then.
Parking Lot Debacle
Tried being slick and squeezed behind the Dumpster near equipment shed. Five minutes later, angry janitor bangs on window. “Who told you this is visitor parking?” Felt like caught cheating on test. Real talk: tiny sign near entrance says spectators park ONLY in west gravel lot – which was totally empty but half mile from field! Just walked it kicking stones feeling stupid.
Gate Drama Unfolds
Saw open gate near bleachers, walked right through whistling. Nope. Track coach comes sprinting like I’m stealing mascot costume. “Closed practices bro!” she shouts, pointing at laminated sign hidden behind Coke machine. Apparently even when field looks empty, rules are rules. Felt my ears burn standing outside chainlink like a lost puppy till practice ended at 4:45. Totally humbling.
Bleacher Fails & Winning Move
Finally got in when players cleared out. Saw perfect center bleacher seat sun-dried from rain. Plopped down hard – SOAKED my jeans instantly. Those metal benches hold puddles like bathtubs. Swore loud enough mom walking track glared at me. Ended up pacing sidelines checking view spots when security guard took pity. Shouted “Corner seat 10 always dry!” like sharing state secret. MVP right there.
Crowd Etiquette Real Talk
After all this? Here’s hard-earned stuff every fan MUST avoid:
- Never come before 5pm on school days – you’ll haunt empty field like weird ghost
- Dry seats test first – smack metal with hand, sounds dumb but saves your pants
- Gate closed means BUSINESS – even if it’s slightly open, just don’t. Staff will tackle you (almost literally)
- Bring binoculars – good seats far from parents section drama
Left two hours later smelling like wet metal and shame. But hey, at least you don’t have to learn the hard way now. Their hotdogs suck too – brown bag your snacks, thank me later.