PAOLI, Ind. — An Indiana high school football team is earning praise for going above and beyond after their game last week.
The Paoli Rams traveled to Eastern Greene to face the Thunderbirds on Friday, Sept. 27. The game, like many across the state that night, was played in the remnants of Hurricane Helene. Driving rain throughout the game made for muddy conditions for both teams.
Paoli won the game 38-12, rushing for 341 yards and five touchdowns against the Thunderbirds. Three days later, Principal Ed Wagner learned of an even bigger victory.
According to a Facebook post by Paoli Jr. and Sr. High School, Eastern Greene Athletic Director Aaron Buskirk submitted an Exemplary Behavior Report with the IHSAA, recognizing the entire Paoli football team.
Buskirk's message noted that after the rain-soaked game Friday night, Paoli's coaching staff and players cleaned the locker rooms they used in the Eastern Greene gymnasium, even sweeping and mopping the floors before heading back to Paoli.
"I appreciate their willingness to do this without being asked to do so and to help our custodial crew out after a very muddy night!"
"Thank you to Coach (Neil) Dittmer and your staff for your leadership with our team, and thank you, RAMS, for representing PHS in such a positive way, even when you are far from home," the Paoli Facebook post read.
The Rams, now 6-0, look to continue their perfect season at home Friday against Crawford County. Eastern Greene, 2-4 on the season, will host Red Hill High School from Illinois.
