Benton, Bryant communities gather to support teams at pep rallies ahead of 2024 Salt Bowl

SALINE COUNTY, Ark. – A 50-year rivalry is set to play on the War Memorial Stadium turf this Friday, with the Panthers and Hornets tackling it out for the 2024 Salt Bowl Championship.

Benton Panthers gathering at Everett Infiniti and the Bryant Hornets at Everett Buick GMC, both sharing the same exit, separated by the interstate, and as you can imagine, each pep rally was trying to be the loudest and proudest for their teams.

Players, cheerleaders, school bands, parents, and the community are coming out to support and wish their boys the best at the game on Friday.

“It’s definitely something to remember, definitely thankful to be playing in this game right now,” Benton Senior Wide Receiver Elias Payne said.

Payne expressed his excitement about returning to the War Memorial Stadium for another Salt Bowl game.

“It’s been fun, especially growing up as a Bryant kid, you know, being able to watch the Salt Bowl as a kid and now getting to play in it,” Bryant Senior Quarterback Jordan Walker said.

Parents are also excited to watch their boys back on the field, especially participating in the 50th anniversary Gold Standard Way game.

“Just watching my kid honestly, and if they win, I know they can, that would be even better,” Panther mom Regina Regland said.

Then, some other parents are excited to watch their kids play in their first Salt Bowl Championship.

“Well, we are totally thrilled to be a part of the Bryant community, really excited about that, love seven wins in a row, looking forward to eight,” Hornet dad Jim Minor said.

The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30.

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