Harding University HS holds pep rally to celebrate state football title

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Students at Harding High School celebrated their football team's state championship win on the last day of school before winter break.

The school held a pep rally for the team and the community Tuesday afternoon.

Head football coach Samuel Greiner said his players deserved the celebration.

"It's hard to put it in words. We are still living on that cloud 9," said Coach Greiner.

His football team danced with their state championship trophy, but the days leading up to the pep rally were met with some obstacles.

The team didn't have money for the championship rings so the community raised thousands of dollars on a GoFundMe page. It was Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis who ultimately came to their rescue. Last week, he donated $15,000 to help pay for all 60 rings.

Panther’s Thomas Davis Donates $15K to High School for State Championship Rings Panther’s Thomas Davis Donates $15K to High School for State Championship Rings

Marcellous Harris couldn’t be in the championship game because he hurt his ankle the prior game, but he still cheered on the team from the sidelines.

Harris told Channel 9 he joined the team as a sophomore after Greiner promised a college scholarship and a ring. Harris said he will end up getting both.

"It is something that I will always remember later on in life when I’m older," Harris said.

Principal Eric Ward said they can only go up from here.

"There is just a great outpouring of love," Ward said.

"(Football players) are dancing,” Greiner said. “They are having a good time. It's a Christmas present in itself. "This is a gift they will never forget. They will remember for the rest of their life."

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