By Gary Lloyd
CLAY — A www.gofundme.com account has been set up to help the Clay-Chalkville varsity football team pay for Class 6A state championship rings.
Created by Jamie Dunn Floyd, the online fundraiser had brought in $575 early Monday morning. The goal is $10,000.
The Clay-Chalkville varsity football team poses for a photo after defeating Saraland 36-31 on Dec. 5 in Jordan-Hare Stadium for the Class 6A state championship.
photo by Ron Burkett
The summary of the fundraiser states that the Cougars faced “unbelievable obstacles” in completing a 15-0 season, including the death of linebacker Mekail Evans, running back Terelle West tearing his ACL, a team member’s loss of a parent, a bus breaking down on the way to Auburn, a late dinner on game night, and one of the two hotels where the team stayed not allowing players to stay until their leaving for the stadium.
“Any one of these obstacles might have negatively affected any other team, but this year’s team members have been relentless in pursuing their dream and have brought honor to their school, their community, and their families,” the post states.
Due to Jefferson County Board of Education regulations, the post states, the school isn’t allowed to purchase state championship rings or fundraise in order to purchase the rings.
“Many of these courageous young men simply cannot afford to purchase the rings, but all of the team members have earned the rings, which symbolize their great achievement and the memories of a lifetime,” the post states. “Immediately after Christmas break, the total cost of the rings will have to be paid. In this season of giving, please consider helping to raise the money so that every player will receive a ring to commemorate this great accomplishment.”
Visit the www.gofundme.com account here.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.
