TIFT COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - Tift County High School students attended a very special football game the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 14. The 2025 Legends Football Game kicked off at 10:15 a.m. on the high school’s practice field.

This event allowed students with disabilities to team up with Tift County football players for a fun and inclusive game — highlighting unity, school spirit and inclusion through sports. The stands were packed with classmates, teachers and community members cheering them on, creating what many call “the best 30 minutes of fall.”

Students broke into two teams, with 29 participating alongside the band and cheer squad — all representing the Blue Devil Legends.

Special education teacher Amber Gibbs said the game shows what’s possible when communities choose to include everyone.

“We are all Blue Devils, and we promote inclusivity. Sports are for everyone,” Gibbs said.

One of her students, Gabriel Daniels (#18), said getting the chance to play football with his classmates was a dream come true.

“My favorite moment is to play football and be with my classmates and everything,” Daniels said. “It’s been a big opportunity for the school and for my class too.”

The football team also helped run plays and cheer students on — giving them a true ‘Friday Night Lights’ atmosphere.

Head Coach Jeff Littleton said the experience teaches his athletes lessons that extend far beyond the field.

“They need to see it’s more than just being an athlete,” Littleton said. “They’re mentors to these kids. They build really good relationships with them, and it’s great to see them in that positive light.”

Principal Jennifer Johnson said the goal is to ensure no student feels left out — and she hopes other schools across South Georgia will follow their lead.

“Everybody’s abilities are not the same, but everybody is able to do something,” Johnson said. “If this is the way we can show compassion and love, one positive moment at a time, I encourage other schools to do it as well.”

The next Legends Game will be held during basketball season, continuing the tradition of celebrating inclusion — both on the field and off.

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