The tears that started forming in Kyle Wiggins' eyes told the story.
Wiggins never took his time in an Absegami High School football jersey for granted. His high school career may be over, but he appreciates it all, including a win over district rival Oakcrest on Thursday.
Beating Oakcrest, 9-6, was a satisfying feeling for Wiggins and his teammates.
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"I can't explain the feeling," the Braves senior said. "I'm fighting tears."
"This year is so much better," said running back David Hood, referring to last year's loss. "I'm loving it."
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The Braves won the Joe Mohr trophy, and all the players took turns taking pictures with it. The Braves now hold an 18-17 advantage in the all-time series over the Falcons.
"It's a huge win for everybody involved," Absegami coach Dennis Scuderi said. "It's community based. It's great to see former players come back, players you care about, seeing them is great. No senior class wants to lose this game."
No Brave wants to lose this game.
It's the game that can leave you feeling good about the season. It can also leave you disappointed like the Braves found out last year.
However, there was nothing but joy on Absegami's side of the field this season.
"The coaches told us how much it means to everyone and we love our coaches so it means a lot to us," Hood said.
The win lets the seniors leave the field with their heads a little higher, but the win can also build momentum for the future.
The Braves ended the season at 5-5 with most of their starters back for the 2012 season.
"It can impact this summer," Scuderi explained. "It got us to .500 which isn't great, but with our schedule it's not poor. It's a springboard to next year. We have a lot of our keys guys coming back."
Iron man
Maybe it's his wrestling background. Maybe it's the years spent on the football field.
Nate Ross wouldn't be denied a chance to play Thursday.
The Absegami senior defensive back had back spasms this past week and there was a question whether he would suit up.
In fact Scuderi didn't think he would driving to the school on Thursday.
"As of yesterday I was under the impression he wasn't playing," he said.
Ross warmed up before the game and was ready to play.
"He said, 'This is my last one, and I'm not going to miss it,'" Scuderi said. "He came out and played out of his mind. That means a lot to me as a head coach that kids will do that for our program."
