[Watching some of the national games from this weekend was a stark comparison to FL HS football atmosphere]

I think it boils down to you either have a community feel or you don't.  It would be tough for SE Florida to have a community feel or community loyalty.  North Florida communities, outside the big cities, it's what you have.  I had two daughters and in 24 years I probably did not miss 10 Niceville games at home.  I moved to N Carolina and I still listen.  The reason is Niceville is home and I want to support the teams.  I love hearing the band, I love going to the stadium and seeing the same people year after year.  I still drive back just to go to a game.  It's that fun.  If you want to have fun at a high school game go to one in Niceville, or Crestview or Ft Walton, Navarre, Baker 2A Baker.  They are all great atmospheres, and I love it.

[Watching some of the national games from this weekend was a stark comparison to FL HS football atmosphere]

Niceville has a great atmosphere for a high school game.  They open with North Miami Beach next week mainly because the coach at N Miami Beach wants his players to see what it should be like to play in a crazy atmosphere.  This is the second year in a row they will open at Niceville.  I hope they have a good time win or lose.