Dylan Curran is a Staples High School freshman. Like many teenagers, he loves sports.
At the beginning of the school year — through the encouragement of quarterback Jake Thaw and his family — the special education student was invited to be the team’s assistant manager. He helped carry the med kit and water, and aided the coaches and team in countless ways.
Dylan had a wonderful time. He attended practices and games, wearing street clothes and a borrowed jersey.
Last night was different.
In the locker room before game time, the team helped Dylan get dressed in full football gear: pads, cleats, and of course a helmet.
Coach Drew Smith and Dylan Curran.
He was thrilled. But there was more to come.
Dylan Curran (#29) and his teammates, before the game. (Photo/Chris Greer)
Coach Drew Smith, fellow Staples freshman coaches Jared Smith, Ty Guarante and Chris Jerome — and their Greenwich High counterparts — arranged a special play.
On the Staples field — under the lights — Dylan scored a touchdown!
Dylan scores! (Photo/Chris Greer)
The Wreckers ran over. They high-fived, hugged him, and chanted “Dylan! Dylan! Dylan!”
(Photo/Chris Greer)
Staples lost the football game, 34-13.
But they sure won the game of life.
