The morning sun rose over Woodford County as the varsity football team arrived at Huntertown Community Interpretive Park, a 38‑acre site that once served as a Freetown for African American veterans of the Civil War and World War II. Instead of their usual pads and helmets, the 38 players carried shovels, weed whackers and trash bags, ready to give the grounds a thorough cleanup.
The park holds deep historical significance, its gravestones marking the final resting places of soldiers who fought for freedom on distant battlefields. By restoring the landscape, the athletes not only honored those veterans but also connected with a legacy that stretches back generations.
Community Service as Team Building
Coach Dennis Johnson emphasized that success on the field begins with character off it. "Being good humans is the foundation of a strong program," he said, highlighting how the shared labor forged a tighter bond among the teammates.
Junior Josiah McKee reflected on the experience, noting that the physical work gave the players a tangible sense of purpose. "It meant a lot to give back to the community," he explained, adding that the collective effort deepened the team's mutual respect and unity.
District 6 Magistrate Larry Blackford observed that such service offers a living lesson in history and civic responsibility. "When young people learn to respect the past while shaping the future, they become better stewards of our shared heritage," he remarked.
The cleanup not only preserved a critical piece of local history but also demonstrated how athletic programs can serve as platforms for character development and community engagement. As the team finished the day, the freshly tended grounds stood as a testament to their commitment both as athletes and as citizens.