On Tuesday evening, Winona High School held their Championship Ring Ceremony for their 2023 MHSAA Class 3A Football Championship at Tiger Field. The stands filled with proud family and devoted fans as Athletic Director Veronica Helms opened the ceremony.
“This is the conclusion to what was a real exciting year; an outstanding season by our young men who played with lots of class and lots of energy,” Helms said. “We are so proud of them.”
Athletic Booster Club President Andy Bridges and Veronica Helms presented the football team with rings and patches, and the cheerleaders and dance team with necklaces.
The Voice of the Tigers, Eddie Hammond, gave an encouraging speech to the players as well.
“Touch down Tigers!” Hammond enthused. “Man, don’t you love that sound.”
He spoke of his love for working with the teams over the years, expressing the honor he felt to have the privilege to speak to the crowd. He mentioned being asked to speak to the kids, aiming to inspire them.
“How do I give these kids words of inspiration?” He said. “When you yourselves have inspired a whole community.”
He then turned his attention to the parents, coaching staff, and administration.
“You ought to be commended,” Hammond said. “The greatest compliment you can be paid is for some stranger to tell you, you have raised some outstanding young men.”
As the night gleamed with pride and accomplishment, it was clear that it was a good night to be a Tiger.
