Last Friday, Tiger Stadium was packed not just for the thrill of the game but for an evening devoted to honoring veterans, tradition, and community. Each Pryor football player wore a jersey emblazoned with the name of a local veteran, thanks to a collaborative effort by the PHS Lead Team, Cherokee Nation, American Castings, and No Pressure Sports. The jerseys were a unique symbol of respect for those who have served, creating a powerful connection between the team and the community.
During the first half of the game, PHS Lead Team students, under the direction of sponsor Shelley Brown, hosted a silent auction, giving fans a chance to bid on the jerseys. All proceeds from the auction will support the Mayes County Blue Star Mothers, a local organization dedicated to sending care packages to service members deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other foreign locations. Many community members placed their bids, hoping to secure a piece of this memorable night while supporting a meaningful cause.
The Pryor Football Team will proudly wear the jerseys once more for the Veterans Day Parade on Monday, November 11, before presenting them to the auction winners. Adding to this tribute, the Lead Team will have a float in the parade to honor our Veterans.
The night opened with Senior Night, where parents walked with their senior athletes onto the field, celebrating their accomplishments and plans. Adding to the atmosphere of respect, the Cherokee Nation Color Guard presented the colors, and Tribal Councilman Danny Callison was present to honor the occasion.
An emotional moment came when the announcer invited all Pryor athletic alumni to the end zone for the National Anthem. As the sun set over the stadium, the crowd felt the bittersweet realization that this might be the final game played at Tiger Stadium, as a new stadium is currently under construction across from the high school.
While excitement builds for the new facility, the many memories created at Tiger Stadium will continue to be a cherished part of Tiger tradition. This night, filled with respect, community, and tradition, was a fitting tribute to all that Tiger Stadium represents for Pryor and its community.
