Being on a team is an integral part of any childhood or high school experience. You learn how to work toward a common goal with others and how to make the most of your teammates' strengths. Just as importantly, you also learn how to compensate for their weaknesses.
Jake Pratt is a high school senior at Vestavia Hills in Alabama. He has Down syndrome but is known for being one of the most enthusiastic members of his school's football team.
According to AL.com, as the team manager, Jake has attended every summer workout and weight-lifting session. His role on the team is mostly supportive, and his teammates love him for it, but he's never been able to dress for a game or really participate in the sport itself — until now.
After Jake served three years as the team's manager, his parents asked the coaching staff if he could dress for a game.
On August 26, 2017, Jake was asked by his coach to dress for a game. This was the first time he'd had the chance to be able to help the team by being on the field himself.
Jake enjoys his role as the team's manager, but there is something to be said about being on the field and being able to contribute to the game.
Wearing a uniform wasn't all that was in store for Jake. His teammates and coaching staff had a little more action in mind for him than just looking the part.
They wanted to make sure he really got a chance to experience the game.
In fact, they planned a special moment for Jake where he could live out the moment every football player dreams of — scoring a touchdown.
The team set up the special moment, and Jake came in to score the touchdown.
He finally got the chance to do what he had watched his teammates do on the field for years. His performance was something he and everyone else at the game would be proud of.
Jake's teammates and even the players from the opposing team stormed the field to share in his celebration after scoring the touchdown.
The moment was so moving that everyone in the stands joined in on the celebration, too.
Vestavia Hills football coach Buddy Anderson tells AL.com, "It was one of the most moving things I've ever seen."
Rick Karle from WBRC wrote on Facebook:
In 37 years of broadcasting it would be difficult for me to find a moment as heartwarming as the moment that we saw Friday night. Vestavia Hills senior Jake Pratt, who has Down syndrome, scored a touchdown against Briarwood Christian. Jake is a full-fledged member of the team, and his moment in the sun will be cherished for years.
This incredible act of inclusiveness and kindness just goes to show how a good deed can touch many people's lives.
Let's offer good luck to Jake and his teammates this season — and hope for many touchdowns to come.
Jake's mom told AL.com, "He was so happy. Jake will remember this all of his life. It will be a life-changing experience."
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