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BUIES CREEK, N.C. – Shopping centers weren't the only places with long lines the day after Thanksgiving. The Harnett Central vs. Middle Creek quarterfinal matchup drew a big crowd Friday afternoon at Campbell University's football stadium.

Will Gage, Harnett Central's athletic director, recalled when he joined the school 20 years ago as a teacher and assistant football coach.

"To go from a time where we had 16 people total on the team to have success like we're having, it's just really refreshing to see the community really get behind it," he said.

Shannon Watkins has been a Harnett Central teacher for 17 years. Before that, she was a student and cheerleader. She remembered how the team only won six games during the four years she was there.

The team has come a long way since then, and has made the playoffs for the last few years. But Friday's third-round game was the furthest the school has ever made it in the post-season.

"It's very exciting for me to see our guys be so successful," she said.

Watkins has taught most of the Harnett Central players on the field and was very proud of the work they’ve put in throughout the year.

"These guys are there all summer. They're in the weight room. And they're there all night, watching films," she added. "These guys are amazing, and they're very excited."

The excitement translated into more ticket sales and more purchases of concessions and merchandise. That's a financial boost for the school and the North Carolina High School Athletics Association.

"We're selling quite a bit more than we typically do," said Jerry Milton, president of the Harnett Central booster club. "It is a tough financial time, but it's a very good value for the families to come out."

Ken Jernigan, the school's principal, said the community has been very supportive of the team, and the huge crowds at the game despite it being Black Friday were indicative of where their hearts are.

"What's important today is we foster good sportsmanship and we play a safe game," he said. "One team is going to win. And regardless, we're going to be proud of all these young people."

Luckily for Jernigan and everyone else rooting for Harnett Central, they won the game 14-8 and will continue to the next round.