Raiders Are Winners, Score Does Not Matter

Some say football builds character and character is what defines you. If that is the case, East Paulding Raider’s character says they are winners without even looking at the score.
The Raiders looked outward beyond the gridiron and made Brantley Dobbs, a 6-year-old young man with DIPG Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (a terminal brain tumor) their captain for last week’s game. Coach Shackelford said “It was only fitting, Brantley has a terrific spirit which motivated the team to bring out their best, on and off the field. After the team decided to make him a captain, we worked out a special play with the help of Brantley called Max 12. Captain Dobbs magic starting working when he won the coin toss before the game. Team Captain Dobbs called for his play to be used allowing for a successful TouchDown.”
Brantley Dobbs stayed on the sidelines all the way through the game despite being long past his bedtime. While tired, he never lost his smile. He rallied the team spirit through all four quarters to a 41 to 21 win. Brantley positive attitude keeps him going. Given 9-12 months to live was 18 months ago. He said, “I am looking forward to Halloween because people give me candy and watching the Raiders win more games.”
The win will go down in the history book and be forgotten like so many other games. But the memories made that night will be with everyone that was part of the game for a lifetime.

Woodland team shakes hands with Team Captain Brantley Dobbs 4075 - East Paulding Raiders lead onto the field by Team Captain Brantley Dobbs.The East Paulding Home Coming Court huddles around Team Captain Brantley Dobbs at halftime. East Paulding Home Coming Court from Left to Right. Ryann Mize Freshman, Ivy Couch Sophomore, Miranda Couch 2016 Queen, Abby Kikta 2017 queen and Tori Hutchins Junior.