36 Bellcate family members attended “Senior Night” at Milton High School last Friday to pay tribute to one of their own, Eric, who was playing in his final home football game. The Bellcate Barrage started to pull into the parking lot at 4:45, when Jamie, Ralf, Ben, and Dylan arrived. “We pulled Jamie’s truck up right next to the field and started setting up for the tailgating party,” explained Ben. “We had the grill, tables, food and some games, it was a lot of fun!” Ben added. By 6:00, there were over 20 Bellcaters there. People enjoyed some delicious hot dogs and burgers cooked by Jason, throwing the football around, and socializing with each other.
At about 6:40, the crowd turned their attention to a police car, who was escorting the 5 seniors toward the field. Eric, wearing his patent number 50 jersey, ran proudly to mid field as the bulldog faithful clapped and screamed proudly in his honor. “I had chills” recalls Bellcate Athletic Director, Jamie Moore. “Eric has played on a Milton football team since he was 12 years old,” says Moore. He deserved a night like tonight, and I am proud of him and what he has accomplished as a student-athlete” Moore adds. Eric’s name was then called by the public address announcer, and he ran through his teammates who gave him 5, then met his family on the sidelines for hugs. Standing there, was Eric’s cousin, Alex, who also attends Bellcate. “I was so happy for my cousin and really honored he wanted me on the sidelines with him,” Alex said.
Kick off started a little before 7. By halftime it was a very close game, with Milton down a touchdown. The majority of the Bellcate faithful was calling it a night, but not before Eric ran over to greet everyone that came and watched his game. “I was super happy and grateful that everyone came out to watch my senior game,” Eric said. “People know I love football, so it meant a lot to have you guys come here and watch my last game,” Eric added. Everyone took a picture with Eric, and he hopped over the fence to reconvene with his team for their halftime pep talk.
It was a proud day for Bellcate. Seeing someone close out a chapter in their lives like Eric did, but doing it all together. 36 people who love Eric and love being a part of the Bellcate family. It was a special night and one in which Eric wont forget nor will I. Go Bulldogs!
