By DREW GRANTHUM/Sports Editor

There’s no doubting the impact that the Thompson High School football team has on the community within the city of Alabaster. Between the packed stands on Friday nights and the copious amount of red and black found in the city throughout the week, it’s safe that a strong contingency will help the program in any way possible.

On Aug. 23, however, the Warriors got the opportunity to return the favor, giving back to the city of Alabaster through the NFL Leadership program. The NFL Leadership Program is a one-day event comprised of activities in three different areas – the classroom, the community, and the leadership competitions.

The Warriors took the opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering in a service project, namely performing community service at Creek View Elementary.

Head coach Michael Montgomery said it was too good an opportunity to pass up.

“My old coach in Mississippi is the NFL regional director, and he approached me about it,” he said.

Montgomery said that while they instruct the Warriors to execute on Friday nights, they also try to teach the group the importance of giving back.

“It continues the methods we are building on,” he said. “Understanding what it means to be a leader and civic duties in respect to…football.”
Montgomery also said the team strives to do the best job possible on the field, in the classroom and in life.

“God built you all or nothing,” he said. “Be the best you can be all day everyday. God gives everyone a talent. What you do with it is up to you. As a coach, I feel its my duty to get them to understand (that).”

While at Creek View, the Warriors took time to paint benches, clean sideboards in the main hallway and dispose of old furniture, among other things.

Montgomery said that while the Warriors fell in a tough road game the night before, the squad made sure it didn’t take the loss with them in the program.

“(They) had a big game the night before, (but it) didn’t go the way you want,” he said. “You have to prioritize. Giving back to the community is civic duty. Everyone has an important part to play in their community. This program gave us a chance to reiterate that.”