Quincy’s Keston Pilgrim breaks free from one of Pershing County’s defensive players. Photos by James Wilson

High school football season is in full effect, as was evident at Quincy High’s first home game of the season Friday, Sept. 7. Football games have always played an essential role in Plumas County’s community and Friday’s game demonstrated that they remain so.

All the aspects that make live games more enjoyable to watch were present Friday: a crowd of parents, children, high school alumni and community members were there cheering the team on.

Concession stands provided game food and drinks. The cheerleaders led the crowd in cheers, and tensions rose and dropped as the game progressed and the feeling of community was ever present.

Friday was proclaimed Steve Tolen Day by the Board of Supervisors and Quincy High took the proclamation to heart. Several events throughout the day paid tribute to Tolen.

Tolen played an integral role in shaping what high school football games look like in Plumas County. Tolen started  EMT services and brought an ambulance to Plumas County. At every game, there is an ambulance present thanks to Tolen.

Quincy’s cheerleaders huddle together before performing a dance number during Friday’s half time.

Tolen also gave an impressive amount of his time to the high schools. He mentored students for their senior projects and instructed students in EMT classes. Tolen involved himself in whatever activities supported the children of Plumas County.

Quincy High held an assembly Friday to get the school excited for its first home game. In keeping with the game’s dedication to Tolen, students held a ceremony for him. Quincy football player and school vice president Cody McDonald presented Tolen with an honorary Quincy High football helmet.

Between the junior varsity and varsity games, the Board of Supervisors held another ceremony in honor of Tolen, with a proclamation read to the crowd.

Quincy’s team ended up losing the JV and varsity games. Varsity lost to Pershing County 46-6. The junior varsity fell 30-6.

Although the Trojans lost the game, the game day was a big win for the community. Everyone in attendance showed their love of competition, honored a fellow community member and supported their team.