The Central High School varsity football team’s homecoming matchup against visiting Bluestone High School on Friday will be a key part of Central’s 50th anniversary celebration.

“It’s a big deal,” Chargers Head Coach Will Thomas said of the anniversary. “You look at 50 years here, it’s something else — a lot of success not just in our sport but a lot of other sports.”

As described on the Lunenburg County Schools (LCS) website, Central’s doors first opened to students on Sep. 8, 1966. Members of the school’s first graduating class, the Class of 1967, as well as faculty members who were at Central that first year, will receive special recognition before game time Friday.

“A lot of good people come from this place then, and they still stay in touch, and we see them from time to time,” Thomas said. “I think we’re suppose to have some principals and even some former coaches back for the 50th anniversary, so it’ll be pretty good.”

The LCS website notes traditions that started 50 years ago will continue Friday night, including singing the Charger fight song, meeting the homecoming court and listening to the Marching Charger band.

“Our band has really stepped up,” Thomas said. “It’s really increased in numbers. It sounds great.”

Looking to be a highlight of the Purple & Golden Anniversary celebration, Central’s varsity football team is playing to improve to 6-1 this season with a win over Bluestone. The Chargers have had two weeks to prepare, coming off a bye, which has afforded time for healing, too.

Nevertheless, “it looks like we’re still a ways away from everybody getting healthy,” Thomas said, adding that some role players are expected to be out Friday.

The Chargers will aim to contain Barons senior quarterback Tevarius Brooks, who Thomas said is “probably the best we’ve seen so far up until this point this year.”

On defense, Bluestone flies to the ball, making it difficult to run with good linebackers and a defensive line that is quite good, Thomas said.

He added that, if needed, Central may feature more of its improving passing game.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.