Atlanta Falcons Show Support for Apalachee High School Following Tragic Shooting

On the 14th of September, 2024, the Atlanta Falcons welcomed the Apalachee High School football team to their training grounds. This poignant gesture took place a week after a devastating shooting at Apalachee High School claimed the lives of two students and two teachers.

The high school team had the opportunity to watch Friday’s practice from the sidelines of the Falcons’ training facility, located in Flowery Branch, Georgia.

Jerry Gray Highlights the Strength of the Young Players

Jerry Gray, the assistant head coach for the Atlanta Falcons’ defense, spoke highly of the resilience shown by the young athletes. “Observing these young individuals navigate through such a challenging experience is truly remarkable,” he said. “One can’t help but wonder about their emotional journey as they return to the school where the tragedy unfolded.”

Remembering the Victims of the Apalachee High School Shooting

Among those who lost their lives in the September 4th shooting was a beloved teacher who also served as an assistant coach for the Apalachee football team. In addition to the four fatalities, nine others were injured. Memorial services for two of the victims were scheduled for the following Saturday.

A 14-year-old student has since been charged with the murders, with his father also facing charges for allegedly supplying the weapon used in the crime. During the shooting, numerous students sought refuge in the school’s football stadium. Apalachee High School is situated in Winder, roughly 20 miles from the Falcons’ training complex in the expansive Atlanta suburbs.

Atlanta Falcons Offer Comfort in a Time of Crisis

“When given the opportunity to provide a degree of solace and express our love and support, it’s a special moment for all of us here,” Gray expressed. “Despite being part of the NFL, we never forget the importance of empathy and compassion.”

Prior to their season-opening defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Falcons’ coaching staff and players displayed their solidarity with Apalachee High School by wearing the school’s T-shirts during their pregame warmups. A moment of silence was also observed before the game commenced.

Falcons defensive end, Grady Jarrett, who grew up in suburban Atlanta, said, “It was a significant gesture. I had played against Apalachee during my high school years.”

The Falcons are set to play against the Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) in Philadelphia on the upcoming Monday night.