Team spirit goes beyond gridiron

By RITA FARLOW, Times Staff Writer
Published December 5, 2007

They wear their Packer blue and gold with pride.

On Friday night, they'll cheer as the Packers take the field and roar at the opponents from St. Thomas Aquinas. - They'll be waving handmade banners and wearing body paint in a show of solidarity. - United in their dreams of playing in the state championship, they are Largo High School students, alumni and boosters. - They are the Packers' 12th man.

Rita Farlow, Times staff writer

"I want them to show no mercy and play their best game ever this Friday. We're going to need it."

Beth Snyder, 46, of Largo, 1979 Largo High graduate and coordinator of the Largo High Football Boosters.e_SPgB"The biggest thing is eliminating the mental errors, which create penalties. They just have to focus. They have to play flawlessly. They definitely have to be on their A-game."

Michael Whiting, 47, of St. Petersburg, a 1978 Largo graduate and former Packers running back.

"I'm thrilled, obviously, with what we've done, but for me it's not just Largo's success. It's the first time in 10 years that Pinellas County has been in the semifinals, so we want (other Pinellas residents) to be there, in the end zone, cheering us on."

Greg Zornes, Largo High assistant principal and athletics director.

"We're going to dominate that team."

Alayah Hayes, 14, of Largo, freshman.

"Regardless of what happens Friday night, you have to know that the community is supporting and proud of everything you've done."

Lori McFarland, 44, of Largo, 1980 Largo High graduate, Packers booster and mom of right guard Ryan McFarland.

"They've got the talent, the size and the coaching to do it. It's just a matter of getting on the field and playing ... We'll be there cheering them on."

Collin Castle, 38, of Largo, a 1987 graduate and former Packers offensive lineman.

[Last modified December 4, 2007, 22:31:25]