The Charger tradition still stands strong.

Former Central High School football player Ronnie Williams hosted a meal Aug. 4 where he and other former Chargers provided mentorship to the 2017 Central football team.

Williams was joined by Charger football alumni, all of whom were veterans of what many call “the Glory Years” of Charger football. All played on championship teams and shared their passion for “Charger Pride” with the 2017 Charger players.

Chargers Head Varsity Football Coach Will Thomas, who is himself a former Charger football player, commented on what makes “Charger Pride” special.

“I have been to other schools that are rich in football tradition, and I have never experienced anything like this,” said Thomas in a previous interview. “Most kids don’t get to be a part of things like this. These are Chargers who sacrifice to give back to their community.”

Thomas’ comments highlight an important aspect of the school. As I’ve said before, it’s obvious that Central High School alumni and current students — from 1967 to now — have far more enthusiasm for their school than I ever have had. A large part — maybe the most important part of that is “Charger Pride.”

Although getting out of the summer mode and back into the rigor of having a routine can be painstaking, I’d encourage students to soak the school year in. The school community that students of Central High School are a part of is something rare, as Thomas pointed out.

This is a time you’ll never live through again in your life and it’s possible that the spirit of community is something you’ll see seldomly again. So soak it in, go to this year’s football games and other athletic and extracurricular events and show support.

Live out the motto that nothing’s larger than the heart of a Charger.

Morgan White is a staff reporter for The Kenbridge-Victoria Dispatch. His email address is Morgan.White@KVDispatch.com.