Darlington's varsity and junior varsity football teams will play opponents from Florida and Mississippi at the KSA Events Disney Kickoff Classic, beginning Friday night in Orlando.
“This is a tremendous team-building opportunity,” said head football coach Tommy Atha. “The players are traveling together, playing together, and when the game is over, they get the opportunity to fellowship at the theme parks.”
Darlington last attended the showcase in August 2011, when the varsity team won 42-35 over Dade Christian School (Miami).
“The majority of our kids will never get the opportunity to play football in college," added Atha. "To have the experience of a major trip, having an itinerary like this one—we thought it would be neat to give them the closest thing to what a college football experience would be like."
Darlington’s varsity team will play Melbourne Central Catholic High School (Melbourne, Fla.) on Friday, Aug. 21 at 7:30 p.m. The next morning, the junior varsity team will play DeSoto Central High School (Southaven, Miss.) at 9 a.m. Both games will be played at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando.
“This creates a matchup that no one can predict and we love it,” said senior and wide receiver Bob Ledbetter. “It is a new experience for all of us but we couldn’t be more ready to play. I’m excited for other schools to see what it means to be a Darlington football player.”
According to Atha, at least 30 different Darlington families will join the cheerleading squad to support the Tigers from the sidelines at the out-of-state game.
“We have played in various parts of the state, in state playoffs, and have competed against out-of-state opponents, but this showcase is a game that really stands out,” said Atha.
Head of School Brent Bell and Director of Admission Derek Perkins will also be in attendance, meeting with Orlando-area alumni and prospective parents interested in Darlington.
“Every year brings new excitement and optimism,” said Atha. “Going into my 23rd year, it’s just as exciting as the first time I stepped out on the field.”
Following the varsity team’s previous season which included a Region 7 AA championship and a 9-2 record, Darlington's football players have continued to train on into the summer.