Falcon football seniors participated in an annual senior tradition in which they distribute game jerseys to a teacher of their choice, generally someone who has stood out to them and made a difference during that senior’s four years at the school. This was the fourth year Head Football Coach Tyler Noe implemented and planned the surprise for the teachers involved. 

The Falcons cherish this fairly new tradition, although there are social media videos from all over the country of students giving out jerseys, as it brings recognition to the ones chosen and more so that they have made an impact on young athletes’ lives in and out of the classroom.

“For the teachers, a jersey means more than anyone knows. It’s a symbol of the sacrifices we make for our students and shows us we truly are making an impact on these kids’ lives. The joy and emotion you feel when you see that jersey is indescribable, it’s amazing,” AP Biology and Anatomy teacher Ms. Shumate said. 

Along with Ms. Shumate, many other teachers received game jerseys including Mr. Duffy, Mr. Bodenstein, Ms. Rountree, Ms. Bennis, Mrs. Noe, Mrs. Morgan, Ms. Tonelson, Mrs. Marlar, Mrs. Beltz, Mr. Bank, Mr. Ripa, Mr. Mackey, Mr. Ingram, Mrs. Rusak, and even security guard Officer LaClaire. 

These teachers and staff members showed their support by wearing the jersey in school the day of the senior game and then by attending the senior night game to root them on.

This has quickly become one of the school’s most coveted traditions that has proven to bring teachers and student-athletes together.