Tigers' special needs student finds end zone

THUNDER BAY – The Westgate Tigers and Hammarskjold Vikings helped make a teen’s football dream come true on Friday.

The two teams agreed to run a ceremonial play for Tigers special needs player Piper Hynnes prior to the kickoff of their scheduled senior boy’s contest at Fort William Stadium.

The Tigers and Vikings lined up deep in Hammarskjold territory, Hynnes took the hand-off and with the help of blockers, rumbled 20 or so yards into the end zone for the  touchdown.

The youngster has spent the entire season practicing with the Tigers, who have made him a full member of the team.

“He’s great, he’s fun, he’s awesome to have out here, he’s always bringing enjoyment out to the team and lightening everybody’s day up,” said the Tiger's Kieran Dacre. 

Westgate coach Mike McNally said the youngster is an integral part of the team and letting him have his moment on the field was an easy decision. 

“Football’s about building memories. It doesn’t matter if you’re special needs or not. This is another opportunity for us to give a memory to a good young man,” McNally said. 

Hamamarskjold coach Mike Judge agreed. 

“I’m super behind this, and excited to being part of making memories for other football players,” Judge said.