Shepherd University redshirt junior Brian Jester, left, battles with a Lock Haven University football team player, as fellow redshirt junior Jordan Barnett fights forward against two other players, last October. Photo by David Pennock

SHEPHERDSTOWN — College football can be like a magnet. It draws people of all ages, all sorts of occupations and all of society layered by educational backgrounds to its sights, strategies and sounds.

Game Day can be divided into its segments.

Before the afternoon’s awaited pleasures, comes the travel to the site of the game and a possible tailgate meal with its outdoor grill, folding chairs, beverages and emotional buildup to kickoff.

Friends, relatives and old college acquaintances can be seen, and news and opinions shared again, since the last time people were seen.

Souvenirs might be found. Concessions might be wolfed down. Team warmups can be evaluated. Soon the opening kickoff will be in the air.

Shepherd University junior Ronnie Brown clutches the football close to his chest, as Lock Haven University football team members attempt to tackle him on Coach Monte Cater Field last October. Photo by David Pennock

The game with all its colors, sounds, pageantry and flourish is at hand.

The “sport’ of people watching can begin. More concessions can be gleaned. Good plays by the home team can be cheered. Scores from other games can be heard.

At halftime, any bands can entertain or the opening half can be scrutinized and replayed in its entirety. Teams from the past can be on-field to receive their historical notice again.

It could be Homecoming or accolades meted out by the school, for some yearly-held parade or on-campus happenings.

The game’s second half commences. Tenser times if it’s close game and the eventual winner has yet to be determined.

The sun begins to set. Hopefully, it’s not setting on your team’s chances.

Game’s over. Stretch your sitting-too-long-in-one place bones. Gather possessions, coats and sunshade.

A short walk to the site of the tailgate. Plop down and replay the afternoon’s events and plays. Take in the aromatic smells coming from other tailgates. Maybe unknowingly fall asleep for a minute or two. Visit with fellow fans. Ready for a possible on-campus event that’s available in a couple hours. Make early plans for a future game.

Find a souvenir promised to someone not able to attend the game. Plan for the trip back home.

If it’s September or October, just enjoy the early fall evening with its crisp air. If it’s November or December, ease yourself out of the breezy chill and into the warmth of a fireplace if possible.

Your Saturday has been nearly completed.

College football had your attention. Like it has every year since Howard “Hopalong” Cassidy was becoming a legend. Like it will be until a national champion is decided when the new year comes in early February.