"Kerrville's weekend football games provide a path to recovery"
In the heart of Texas, the Kerrville Independent School District's Tivy Antler Stadium echoed with a unique sense of unity and resilience as the community gathered for the first varsity game since the devastating flood on July 4th.
Before kickoff, head coach Curtis Neill addressed his players, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another and regrouping during adversity. This sentiment was echoed throughout the town, as part of the healing process in Kerrville is found in football, which is more than just a game.
Principal Rick Sralla, who had organised a convoy of 10 school buses during the flood to help rescue children, was also present. He acknowledged that the students in Kerrville are dealing with the trauma of the flood, but tonight's event was a step towards recovery.
The Tivy Antlers, led by their courageous players, faced the Del Rio Rams. The game, played to salute the first responders who showed up during the disaster, including a flyover of National Guard Black Hawk helicopters, ended with a victory for the home team. The final score was 40 to 21 in favor of the Tivy Antlers, giving their community something to cheer about.
Twelve-year-old Skyler Derrington, a survivor of Camp Mystic, where 27 lives were tragically lost during the flood, added a poignant moment to the evening. Skyler sang "Hallelujah" during the event, her voice resonating with the hope and strength that the community was striving to reclaim.
The flood, which was caused by a stalled cluster of thunderstorms that dumped over a foot of rain on Kerrville in the early morning hours, claimed at least 135 lives. The Guadalupe River rose catastrophically, almost 30 feet, and without warning, a wall of water hit holiday vacationers and summer camps.
Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reported on the event, shedding light on the resilience and determination of the Kerrville community in the face of adversity. The community's spirit was further reflected in the actions of the school bus drivers, who became first responders and rescued children trapped by the floodwaters.
As the game concluded, the community left the stadium with a renewed sense of hope and unity. For Rebecca Crider, who has been selling tickets for Tivy Antlers' games for 25 years, this night was different. It was a testament to the power of football in bringing a community together, providing a source of comfort and strength during difficult times.
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