Atherton High School’s Football Season Gets a Boost with Detroit Lions’ Unexpected Gift

Get ready for a winning season at Atherton High School, because the football team is kicking off with a splash of new gear, thanks to the Detroit Lions’ 2024 Touchdown in Your Town Grant.

The Detroit Lions rolled out this awesome grant program to back high school football and cheerleading across Michigan. Their goal? Boost safety, and provide some much-needed equipment and tech to the schools that need it most.

Thanks to a $15,000 grant, Atherton High School has snagged 26 shiny new Riddell SpeedFlex helmets and a state-of-the-art blocking sled for their football squad. But the excitement didn’t stop there. What was supposed to be a simple field trip to catch the Detroit Lions’ final preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 24 turned into an unexpected holiday celebration for the team, according to Athletic Director Tim Hanifan.

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The Lions treated the school to 100 tickets to the game, turning an ordinary day into a thrilling surprise. “It was fantastic, I mean, $15,000 for your football program. Who doesn’t want that?” Hanifan told MLive on August 30.

As the Atherton crew enjoyed lunch at Ford Field, they were stunned to learn they had won the Touchdown in Your Town Grant. The day also featured a special meet-and-greet with Roary, the Detroit Lions’ mascot.

The Atherton Wolverines dropped their first game of the season. Now, they are looking forward to their home game this coming Friday against Burton Bendle. So here’s to a fantastic season ahead, with brand-new gear and plenty of Lions’ spirit.