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The Washington CH Blue Lions football team will be trading their blue and white to wear camouflage this week, as a show of support for the men and women serving in our armed forces. The Ohio Army National Guard is loaning the jerseys to the Blue Lions, with 2019 being the inaugural year for the “National Guard Game of the Week” program.
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All active duty and retired Military community will be honored in between the 3rd and 4th quarter of the game along with all eligible individuals will gain free admission to the game with proper military ID. WCH Athletic Director Mark Bihl said; "It is important for Washington Court House to honor the men and women who have fought and died for our country. This game, honoring them, is just a small way we can say thank you".
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The jerseys are an extension of the “Operation Buckeye Guard” program, which was initiated by the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association (OHSFCA). High school teams have partnered with the Ohio Army National Guard to support Military Appreciation Games through OBG since 2011.
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“We’re proud of our long-time partnership with the Ohio Army National Guard, and we’re excited about suiting up in camouflage this year,” said Jerry Cooke, immediate past president of OHSFCA. “It’s a pleasure and a privilege anytime our coaches get to interact with the Guard, and we want our players and fans to recognize the value of the fine men and women who defend our country at every opportunity. Putting a spotlight on them during one of our Friday night football games is a win-win for everybody.”
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“The National Guard has a mission to serve its local communities, so we’re happy to provide this resource to schools interested in recognizing our service members,” said Sgt. Maj. Justin Sprankle, senior enlisted Soldier assigned to the OHARNG Recruiting and Retention Battalion.
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The Ohio Army National Guard is comprised of approximately 11,500 Citizen-Soldiers, and offers many benefits such as 100% college tuition, paid job training and affordable healthcare for part-time service.
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