High school football has a rich history in this country.

Arguably one of the most popular sports in the United States, early games date back to the late 19th century.

Consider that, then consider that in these parts Bangor High School was playing its first football scrimmages as early as 1892.

Back in those days, a good part of a team’s schedule was played against college teams.

In fact, in 1892, Bangor defeated the University of Maine 33-3. In 1896, the two teams played to a 0-0 tie. During the same time period, Foxcroft Academy and Edward Little also played the Black Bears. (Facts gleaned from Stu Haskell’s “The MAINE Book.”)

Although my own first foray with all this Friday night lights stuff occurred on Doyle Field in Brewer, disappointingly, my family soon moved to Bangor, and it was on the friendly confines of the old Garland Street Field – currently known as Cameron Stadium – that the game really got under my skin.

I have many fond memories of following successful Bangor Rams teams under the lights at the old complex, but it is the names of some of those Rams that are deeply etched in my psyche which have lasted all these years.

Names like Leroy Patterson, Robbie Newman, Jimmy Nelson, Dale Reid, Jon Sprague, Joey Higgins, Gabby Price and Gordon Graves – to name a few – comprised a nucleus of giants who drew me across town to follow their progress throughout the course of the fall season.

There is no better experience than following the hometown team on the precipice of the long winter season than to bundle up, a cup of coffee or cocoa in hand, and make your way up and down the sidelines – spectators are no longer allowed to do that – cheering on the local team.

Although the school colors for Bangor have changed a wee bit, having once been maroon and white – players are now wearing a more crimson/cardinal version of the old uniform – it’s the same game with different players working under different coaches.

Today’s Rams feature exciting athletes such as Joe Seccareccia instead of Joe Higgins at quarterback, leading the team down the field.

No matter. Like the old “Dragnet” TV series, “the names have been changed to protect the innocent.” For all intents and purposes, the beauty of this game is the continuity provided by its history.

In this city, kids grow up, wanting to be one of the older guys who toiled relentlessly on the same field of play.

And that, dear readers, is how tradition is fostered.

Instead of former legendary Ram boss Gerry Hodge, it’s now a legend-in-the-making, Mark Hackett, calling the shots. And the beat goes on.

History, tradition and the subsequent winning which transpires should never be taken lightly by others who dare come to play on any given Friday night.

That’s what makes all this stuff so palpable and special in this town.

30-Second Time Out

Professional basketball fans are gearing up for the start of the 2008-2009 NBA season. In Maine, Celtics faithful are still basking in the glow of last season’s title.

On Sept. 24, Gov. John Baldacci declared that date to be 2008 World Champion Boston Celtics Day, which included a championship trophy trip to Portland and Orono where the hardware was displayed.

I would be remiss as a longtime columnist and a longtime Celtics fan if I didn’t pause here today to thank the governor.

Baldacci got the ball rolling on all of this by calling the C’s front office himself. Through the years of my own dealings with John Baldacci on specific issues and problems, I have found him to be energetic, honest and people-oriented. In Maine, we’re lucky to have a man of his stature.

Celtics fans everywhere have benefited from his kindness.

bdnsports@bangordailynews.net