Almont football program gives thanks

Dear Editor,

The Almont football program would like to thank everyone involved with helping us celebrate Almont High School senior Ben Schurig during Friday’s football game against Imlay City. Ben, an AHS student with Down’s Syndrome, is a huge football fan and one of the Raiders’ biggest supporters. He practices with the team on Monday each week, bringing smiles, encouragement, and his famous “calm down!” when coaches get too fired up.

We have great appreciation and gratitude for those that helped make this happen for Ben. Thank you to the Imlay City football program and head coach Dave Brown, who offered his support of this moment from the get go. The Imlay City players showed great sportsmanship in helping to celebrate Ben. The officiating crew, led by Mr. Brian Jones, cleared this play with the MHSAA and helped make it a memorable moment for Ben as he ran for a 40-yard touchdown. Thanks to Almont assistant coach Rich Davedowski for first bringing Ben into our football program and then bringing the idea to celebrate Ben with this amazing play. Thanks to the community for cheering Ben on, not just Friday night but throughout his four seasons participating in our program.

Everyone in attendance was able to see the joy on Ben’s face. We were all able to witness two communities coming together and showcasing the best that humanity has to offer.

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” — Desmond Tutu

— Jeff Bacholzky,
Almont Football