Principal Kurtis Dollison said the funds are crucial to helping build the football program, which is entering its second season of competition. He added that the rest of the athletic department will benefit from the grant as well.
“This chunk of money definitely alleviates some of the strain on the individuals directly tied to the football program,” Dollison said. “I think the access to new equipment is going to make a difference in our preparation and we can use football as a tool to help our young people grow.”
The new helmets and other equipment are helping instill confidence in the Warriors’ football team, who are competing in the Charter School Conference–Silver. The team also got to attend the Lions’ preseason game on Aug. 23, where they were featured at halftime as a Touchdown in Your Town recipient.
KeJuan Dellihue-Bell poses for a selfie with Lions’ mascot Roary during the pregame celebration students, coaches, and cheerleaders attended.
Select players, coaches, and cheerleaders enjoyed a pregame reception with other teams from around the state to celebrate their grants. The reception was an exciting time with food, gifts, fun, and a visit from the Lions’ mascot, Roary.
The experience provided an extraordinary opportunity for the team to watch the Lions up close and personal, one that has become rarer as ticket prices rise. Dollison said everyone was excited to be at Ford Field.
“Getting recognized at halftime was pretty phenomenal,” Dollison said. “To be able to experience this team for this reason is a combination that I believe was unforgettable for our community.”
With this new equipment and a memorable experience to kick off the year, the Warriors are ready to compete this fall.
The Lions’ Touchdown in Your Town program is a program that supports Michigan high school football and cheerleading programs with resources and funding.
Congratulations, Westfield Prep! Best of luck this season!
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About Westfield Preparatory High School
Westfield Preparatory High School is a tuition-free, public charter school in Redford, Michigan, serving students in seventh through high school. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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