Football brings them together. But the lessons Lake Placid High School’s players carry beyond the field are shaped by their teammates, coaches and the families and community standing behind them. That spirit filled the LPHS weight room Thursday, Sept. 10, when Dragon football players and their families gathered for a family-style dinner centered on fellowship, faith and friendship.
Local organization Worthy and Known Family Project provided the meal, with food from Sophie’s in Sebring. Amberlee Rogers shared a message about what makes the experience meaningful: winning is great, but the team, camaraderie and relationships are the real reward. She also shared the organization’s mission: “We want everyone to know their God-given dignity and worth through the love of a healthy family and community.”
For these boys, that support is part of growing into young men—learning to honor commitments, trust one another and show up for someone besides themselves. Parents, families and community members help make those lessons possible through their presence and encouragement. Mayor Colleen Charles was among those attending the evening, the first dinner of its kind this season. One Dragon Football Club’s Carl Canevari hopes for more opportunities to bring players and families together.
The gathering reflected a message that reaches beyond any scoreboard: football may bring these boys onto the same field, but their friendships and commitment to one another make them family.
