Meet-and-Greet for McKenzie Football, Cheer, Band a Big Hit

McKENZIE (August 8) — McKenzie football players, cheerleaders and band members hosted a meet-and-greet event Saturday at Rebel Stadium. Players from the McKenzie Youth Football League all the way up to high school, middle and high school cheerleaders and the McKenzie Marching Rebels were introduced on the field, followed by a variety of games, activities and vendors for a full evening of fun.

The event began with a prayer by recent MHS alum Carlton Townes and the playing of the National Anthem by the Marching Rebels.

Each of the teams and groups were then brought onto the field and introduced by Brian Winston and Craig Lunn.

This year, K-2nd Grade Flag Football includes five teams: the Carroll County Lumber Bills, the American Roofing Co. Raiders, the Carroll Bank & Trust Cowboys, the Hometown Hangout Chiefs and the Power Supply Ravens.

3rd-4th Grade Flag Football includes five teams: the McKenzie Banking Company Titans, the Tosh Farms Packers, the High Pointe Storage Raiders, the Maddox Insurance Cowboys and the Winstead Concrete Bears.

MYFL also includes a 5th-6th Grade Tackle team.

The MMS cheerleaders performed a routine during their introduction, and the high school squad cheered throughout the event.

Besides the National Anthem, the Marching Rebels performed pep songs during the introductions.

New MMS Head Coach Jay Taylor addressed the crowd, introducing his assistant coaches and thanking the fans for their support.

MHS Head Coach Keith Hodge also spoke, thanking the crowd and expressing his excitement for the season.

Punt-Pass-Kick competitions were held for middle school, high school and adults. Participants began in one end zone with a punt, then threw a pass as far as possible and kicked a field goal from that spot.

The middle school winner was Payton Cox, the MMS kicker.

The high school winner was Parker Ross, a sophomore backup QB and starting defensive back for MHS.

The adult winner was Stafford Roditis, an MHS alum and standout kicker now playing for the UTM Skyhawks.

Winners received gift certificates to Hometown Hangout.

The dunking booth was a big draw, with a variety of McKenzie school staff taking splashes throughout the event.

A variety of items were available for purchase, including cheer uniforms, pom poms, vintage jerseys and helmets. A silent auction was held, and concessions were provided.