Every athlete had a moment to shine at Hamilton Community Schools’ Victory Day on Saturday, September 26, at the football stadium.

Students and graduates with disabilities took the field to score touchdowns, celebrate with Hamilton football players and cheerleaders, and hear the crowd cheering them on. Spider-Man and Elsa also joined the celebration, posing for photos and helping make the day even more memorable.

For recent Hamilton High School graduate Anthony Gates, the event was an opportunity to return to a community that still feels like home.

“It really means a lot to me to come back,” Gates shared. “Even though I’m in college, I still got it in my blood.”

Gates also brought his personality to the celebration, showing off a touchdown dance inspired by Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”

“It felt good to come back and see everyone I love and care about,” he said.

For athletes like Gates and Hamilton Middle School student Isaiah, Victory Day provided an opportunity to share the field with friends and celebrate together. Hamilton’s football players and cheerleaders helped make each trip to the end zone special.

“As they’re running, the whole crowd is cheering for them,” one Hamilton cheerleader explained. “We’re all excited. Go Hawkeyes! You did great!”

Hamilton football player Gunner reflected on how participating in the event encourages gratitude for the opportunities and abilities people sometimes take for granted.

And while a familiar superhero was on hand, Spider-Man made it clear who deserved the spotlight.

“All the students here are the real heroes,” he said.

Thank you to Hamilton’s vocal music students for performing the national anthem, Aiden Lynch for announcing, Mackenzie Brewer for organizing the event, the football and cheerleading teams for supporting our athletes, and everyone who attended and helped make Victory Day special.