The Board of Education celebrated the Newtown High School football team for its December 14 Class LL state championship win, at its January 7 meeting.

The meeting room at Newtown Municipal Center was filled with team members, supporters, parents, and NHS administrators and staff for the occasion.

“We are excited to have our Newtown Nighthawks here this evening — our juniors, our seniors, and, of course, [Coach Bobby Pattison],” said Superintendent of Schools Dr Lorrie Rodrigue.

Speaking of the big win, Dr Rodrigue said, “It was the catch heard ‘round the world, and if you were lucky enough to be on the sidelines, like many of us that evening, I will tell you the emotion prompted by their win was something one does not get to experience that often. There were high fives and hugs and lots of tears. It was such a great night.”

It was an emotional evening for everyone, Dr Rodrigue shared, adding, “To play a great game as they did, despite their own emotions, was inspiring.”

The team and Coach Pattison, the superintendent continued, have received well-deserved national attention, including being a highlight in a promotional video by the NFL.

“Congratulations again to all of you,” said Dr Rodrigue.

Board of Education Chair Michelle Embree Ku said the football team’s win was a “unique story.”

“And we are very proud of how you represented our town and our district,” Ms Ku said. “Congratulations to you all.”

An award plaque was presented to the team before all team members present stood together to take a photo at the meeting with NHS Principal Dr Kimberly Longobucco, Newtown Athletic Director Matt Memoli, Coach Pattison, Dr Rodrigue, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Anne Uberti, and Board of Education members.

Coach Pattison later thanked the school board for celebrating the team.

“I just want to thank the board for having us here tonight, giving us this plaque, and all the support the board and town has given us,” Coach Pattison said. “We obviously had a tremendous year, but we couldn’t have done it without everybody being here and supporting us.”