by Matt Wright
Homecoming festivities on the beautiful Lakeland Prep campus attracted a large hometown crowd last night (9.12.19) to see the Lions play, hear the LMPS (Lakeland Middle Preparatory School) band perform and witness the homecoming court for the middle school. The Lions had to fight all four quarters to hold off an upset bid by the visiting Bon Lin Lynx. The Lions hung on to victory winning 34-22.
The Lions returned home to “The Lions Den” after visiting Fayette Academy in a road victory last week. In what’s become a common theme this season, Lions QB Hayden Kee lead the offensive effort for Lakeland scampering for three touchdowns and throwing for another. Rip Pittman also had a long run for a score keeping the Lions out front.
The defense also played well, with some huge stops several times in the game to keep the game in check. Lakeland Head Coach Tyler White said, “Two years ago our defense would have struggled at critical times like that. But they have matured so much in two years. If we had this group all the way thru high school we would be tough to beat.” Lakeland Prep High School is currently scheduled to open in August of 2022. Defensive Lineman Grant Roberson had a spectacular play intercepting a Bon Lin swing pass near the line of scrimmage and returning the interception nearly 50 yards bringing the ball down to the Lakeland 7 yard line. Coach White added, “I told Grant next time if you get tired start cutting at the end of the run so you don’t get caught from behind!” Coach White also pointed out the play of CJ Pride, who made some key tackles on the edge as well as Jack Brown who continues to perform well on the defensive line.
Bon Lin did provide some anxious moments tying the game 22-22 with just over two minutes left in the 4th quarter. But the Lions kept fighting and scored on a 60 yard QB keeper on their next possession pulling back ahead. On the ensuing Bon Lin drive Lakeland recovered a Lynx fumble which helped put the game away.
The Lions are now 3-1 on the season and continue municipal football play next week with an away game against Millington.
Homecoming Court and 8th Grade Recognition Night
Last night was not just about football. The Lakeland students and community turned out to take part in the festivities. Students enjoyed spirit week, a pep rally and the voting of their homecoming court. Before the game, 8th grade players and cheerleaders were also recognized with family members as Lakeland’s way of saying thanks for their efforts. The homecoming court was also a highlight of the evening as many of the students gathered on the field to see who would be announced the winners. Listed below are the winners of each grade.
Linked below are also albums taken by Lakeland Currents staff Jim Willis.
(Editor’s note: If you would like to download any of the Homecoming Game photos for your personal use, Lakeland Currents encourages you to make a contribution to the Lakeland Education Foundation. Link to the website: https://supportlakelandschools.org/donate-now/
Click For Homecoming Court Photos
Click For 8th Grade Recognition Photos
