Gardner-Webb Football Hosts its First Victory Day Celebration on Aug. 17

Head Football Coach Cris Reisert Invites Community to Memorable Evening for Young People with Special Needs

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb Head Football Coach Cris Reisert is eager to introduce his players and the community to a tradition that he first observed in 2019—Victory Day. Partnering with Cleveland County Special Olympics and North Shelby School, Reisert invites everyone to come out to the celebration on Aug. 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Spangler Stadium. The event is free to attend.

“Victory Day is my favorite night of the year!” Reisert affirmed. “I love to see our program embrace our guests for the evening and the impact that is made on both sides. It’s incredible to see the joy and energy of all those involved in the event.”

Victory Day was created in 2010 by a New Jersey cancer survivor as a way to give back to those who supported him during his cancer battle. The event inspired the president of the St. Clair Down Support Group in Michigan to contact a local football coach and expand the concept to focus on those with special needs.

Since then, Victory Day has expanded to several states. Most events are spearheaded by individuals with a desire to celebrate those who are victorious each day, yet may not get recognition.

Pat McDonald, coordinator for Cleveland County Special Olympics, has contacted athletes and signed them up for the event. “They are looking forward to it, and I am really looking forward to it,” she shared.

At Spangler Stadium, young people with special needs will have an opportunity to play football with the GW Runnin’ Bulldogs and cheer with the Bulldog Cheerleaders. Each child will be partnered with a GWU football player or cheerleader who will serve as their mentor for the evening. They will wear a Gardner-Webb game jersey and participate in a number of simulated game-day activities. Each child will have a moment to shine as they score a touchdown and celebrate while the Marching Bulldog Band plays the school fight song. After the game, the children will receive a medal to commemorate their victory.

Registration is free. To register a child with special needs for the event, email [email protected]. Include name, age, T-shirt size and emergency contact information.

Source: Harold Powell, The Keel, Aug. 19, 2022

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.