The Goldthwaite Eagles and Valley Mills Eagles are district rivals.
Neither school's colors contain blue, but most in attendance of the football season’s final district game will be wearing it to honor 7-year-old Luke Sutherland, a Goldthwaite first-grader who lost his battle with cancer Friday.
“I am Luke Strong” shirts that were designed by Luke have been sold as a way to raise money.
Anonymous donors have donated money so that all groups at Valley Mills High School, like the band, cheerleaders and football team can have a shirt for the game.
Luke parents went to school in Valley Mills and when those in the community heard about Luke, they wanted to help. In just two weeks’ time, around $6,000 have been raised to help Luke’s family in his battle with cancer.
“It’s not about Valley Mills, it’s not about football, it’s so much bigger. It’s about a family, it’s about a little boy in need," said Valley Mills Superintendent Mike Kelly.
During halftime of the game, a helmet with both schools’ logos will be given to Luke’s family and a check for all the money that was raised. The award-winning Valley Mills High School band will even have a special tribute during their halftime performance.
Luke passed away Friday afternoon.
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