It's not often a group of Class 1A players are the "talk of the town" when it comes to an all-star event.
Usually, that kind of spotlight is reserved for the big boys that play in Class 6A, while the small schools are just happy to tag along for the ride.
But with the Northview Chiefs riding high after last Friday's Class 1A state championship win over Trenton, the six Chiefs playing in this week's 9th Annual Subway High School All-Star Football Game feel like a group of celebrities.
"It might be the most we've had (in this game)," Northview coach Sid Wheatley said. "I know one year we had, I think, five play in the game.
"I think it speaks about the type of kids we have on our team, and us being fortunate enough to have some kids with talent, speed and play-making ability."
Kickoff for the contest is set for 7 p.m. Friday at Pace High School.
Cost of admission is $7 at the door, or $5 with a canned food item to benefit Manna Food Pantries.
The West team, consisting of seniors from Escambia County schools, will be coached by Washington High's Craig LaBorde.
The East team, made up of seniors from Santa Rosa and Okaloosa County schools, will be coached by Niceville's John Hicks.
Pine Forest and Pensacola High players dominate the West squad. The Eagles lead all teams with nine selections, while PHS has eight players on the team.
Niceville and Pace lead the East squad with seven players each. Navarre and Crestview each have six players on the team.
Northview arrived back in the area on Saturday night, and Wheatley said the players have enjoyed the fanfare since their return.
"I'm sure it's still carrying over; I know it's carrying over," Wheatley said. "There's still a lot of excitement around school. We were the last team in the (county) playing, and having the spotlight on you and a lot of other eyes on you is a lot of fun.
"I'm sure they heard a lot of congratulatory things (at school). I'm sure they're reaping the rewards a little bit."
Friday's game will be preceded by a banquet on Thursday night for the players and their parents. The banquet is put on by the Pensacola Sports Association and sponsored by the Andrews Institute.
