Youth Football Team Rallies for Teammate with Down Syndrome

MADISON, CT — For years, Willi Wilson, who has Down Syndrome, has given his unwavering support to the Madison, Connecticut, eighth grade football, and last month the team gave him a thrill right back.

With the help of the Madison and Southington eighth grade football teams, coaches and parents, Willi scored a touchdown and was carried off the field by his teammates, a heartwarming memory for Willi and all involved. See the video below.

"There are stories about teams doing this for classmates with special needs, but this one is different!" Willi's mother, Christine Wilson, wrote to Patch. "Many of these boys have been together since kindergarten. It is not just a team doing something nice for a fellow student. Willi is their true friend and biggest fan and they have reciprocated because of that true friendship."

Willi has been attending football games since fourth grade, bringing signs, getting the crowd going and even jumping in with the cheerleaders. The Madison team has supported Willi as well, taking the Penguin Plunge for the past two years to raise money for Special Olympics, and this year also participating in the Buddy Walk to support Down Syndrome Awareness.

Christine brought Willi to practice the week before, where he practiced with the team, and head coach Scott Nizolek gave him a uniform. He was so happy to receive the uniform he refused to take it off, sleeping on the couch, helmet and all, according to his mom.

On game day, Willi ran out on the field with the team and was made an honorary captain, but the real treat came on the last play of the game.

The coaches put Willi in at running back, the ball was handed off to him and he ran it to the goal line like a true champion. The boys raised him up on their shoulders, celebrating him for who he is and all he has done for them.

It was a priceless memory that will never be forgotten.

Madison Tigers parent Lauren Miller contributed to this report.

Photos of Willi Wilson and the Madison 8th Grade Football Team. Photo, video credit: Contributed