Friday night’s game was one of the most anticipated football games of the season for the Warriors. Westside’s matchup against Prep was not the only special moment of the night. For the game, Zane Williams, the son of varsity football assistant coach Brett Williams, was named honorary captain. Williams suffers from Arnold-Chiari malformation which prevents him from speaking and breathing normally. He is also diagnosed with Spina Bifida, a paralyzing spinal cord disorder.

The Thursday night before the game, durring the team dinner, the team officially asked him to be an honorary captain and presented him with a jersey. Zane has been to numerous practices and nearly every game this season. He is known for lifting the players spirits and instantly improving their moods. Westside team captain Drew Fitzmorris enjoyed having Zane as a captain and the effect he had on the team during the game.

“It was a very special night for everyone. I was glad to see the reception he received from the Prep captains,” Fitzmorris said. “But overall it warmed all of our hearts knowing how much it meant to him, as well as the whole team.”

In addition, Fitzmorris has learned lessons that he will keep with him for the rest of his life.

“Sometimes there is more to life than just competition and sports,” Fitzmorris said. Sometimes it is very rewarding to take a step back, and give others the opportunity to shine.”