121125 FightingIndiansPepRally JoshuaKodis 004 — Pep rally for Vero Beach High School Fighting Indians ahead of state championship game. PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

VERO BEACH — Fighting Indians football players met with eager fans and signed autographs during a pep rally that drew crowds of supporters on Thursday, two days before the athletes compete in the state championship game in Miami. The event, which had a DJ playing chart-topping hits for the crowd, concluded with a stunning fireworks show against the backdrop of the night sky.

Video by Nick Samuel

“We’ve got the best football family and the best football community that a high school could ever have,” said Head Fighting Indians Football Coach Lenny Jankowski during a rousing speech at the rally. “For being a measly high school football coach, I’m super proud and humble to be part of this.”

Jankowski told the enthusiastic audience that the football players had an incredible season, where they remain undefeated with a 14-0 record. Jankowski said the football players are not only winners, but also great kids.

“Not all the time does winning go hand-in-hand with great kids. We’ve got the best kids in the world. These guys are a lot of fun,” Jankowski said to the crowd. “They love each other. They love being out here for practice. I’m just excited we get one more day of practice. We hope all of you can make it down to Miami…the ‘tribe to the 305.'”

Video by Nick Samuel

The community pep rally was held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Billy Livings Field at the Citrus Bowl on 16th Street, with the meet-and-greet held afterwards. The field is located across from the Vero Beach Performing Arts Center.

The Fighting Indians Marching Band took the field and played school songs, while the cheerleaders lead the crowd in chants.

Video by Nick Samuel

The spotlights fluttered as the football players made their entrance.

Video by Nick Samuel

The players were introduced in groups to the crowd by their team positions – kickers, defensive line, defensive backs, linebackers, offensive line, running backs, receivers and quarterbacks.

Jankowski thanked the community for their support, along with the coaching staff, School District staff, Fighting Indians Marching Band, cheerleaders, and the Fighting Indians Football Booster Club.

Video by Nick Samuel

Vero Beach High School Principal Rachel Serra Finnegan said the pep rally brought unity.

“Tonight, we stand together as one community – students, families, alumni, and friends – united by pride, tradition, and a dream that’s been 44 years in the making,” Finnegan told the crowd. “Forty-four years since our last trip to the state championship game…and here we are again, ready to make history.”

Finnegan told the players that, as they prepare for the biggest game of their lives, to play with passion, purpose and for the moment.

“No matter what the scoreboard says Saturday night, you’ve already made us proud. And we believe in you. We believe this story isn’t finished yet,” Finnegan said. “So, continue to make history…because state is calling, and you are ready. This is your moment. Take it all the way.”

The Vero Beach Fighting Indians Football Team will compete against the Lake Mary Rams at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, for the 7A state championship title. The game will be held at Pitbull Stadium located on the campus of Florida International University.

Video by Nick Samuel