ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MIIthaca High School alums encourage Yellow Jackets

Ithaca High School alums encourage Yellow Jackets

(11/24/11) - While many people gathered for Thanksgiving dinner Thursday, a group in Ithaca came together for a different reason. When the Yellow Jackets play Friday in the Division 6 state finals, they'll know the whole town is behind them.

In a dimly lit high school hallway, a clock counted down the hours until Ithaca took on Constantine at Ford Field. Meanwhile, about 40 people greeted the Jackets as they returned from practice.    

"I think these guys are very thankful to have you come out this morning," Terry Hessbrook, Ithaca High School football coach told the alumni.

Most have suited up for Ithaca in previous seasons, one man played nearly 60 years ago. But time doesn't dim the passion of Yellowjacket football.

"I want to stress to you how much this last game will stick with you through your life," one man said.

The win against Iron Mountain last weekend was the Jackets 27th in a row. If they push the streak to 28, they'll also celebrate their second consecutive state championship.

"To stand here, looking at a chance to repeat, to me it blows me away. It's a testament to how hard you guys have worked," said another man in the crowd.

The well-wishes and encouragement aren't lost on the team.

"It's an incredible feeling. You definitely know how close your community is when you have people coming down here to support like this. It's massive," said Garrett Miniard, Ithaca Yellowjackets running back.

"When you've got people on Thanksgiving Day willing to give up their time and come to the gymnasium and talk to our players, that's what's great about living in a small community," said Coach Hessbrook.

"They're on an unbelievable run here at Ithaca and there's nothing that makes a community and father prouder than what Ithaca's doing," said Randy Miniard, father of Garrett Miniard.