Friday Night Lights shine down on those who fought for our country in Shadyside

SHADYSIDE, Ohio (WTRF) – A sea of camo and red, white, and blue could be found under the Friday night lights at Shadyside this evening as they were honoring those who fought for our country.

The football players unveiled camo jerseys that were graciously donated to them by American Legion Post 521 as a way to say “thank you” for this honor.

It brought communities together, as both the Shadyside and Barnesville cheerleaders teamed up to take donations like hygiene products and nonperishable food items to give back to Helping Heroes.

”When I reached out to their head coach, she also wanted to do this. So, it was a great thing to do. And they also spread it around on their Facebook pages. We decided that we wanted to collect donations for our military just to show how much we love and appreciate them for all that they do for us and our country.”

Michele Burkhart – Varsity Cheer Coach, Shadyside High School

”Our coaches go to a clinic every year and came home and told us about the National Guard being there and a program that they do. I reached out to them to see if we would be able to be a part of that. We were lucky enough to have our local Legion post donate the jerseys for our boys so we’re able to honor our veterans every year.”

Brianne Johnson – Shadyside Football Mom

”With our boys, I think this year, it’s kind of a rocky road and this just goes to show there’s more important things than Friday Night Lights.”

Jennifer Wallace – Shadyside Football Mom

Each player honored a special military member in their lives to be displayed with a flag outside of the stadium.

Veterans were honored out on the field at halftime, as well.

Included in the donations was a $1,000 check from someone in the Barnesville community that will go directly back to Helping Heroes.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTRF.