Wolfpack football team gives special needs children a gameday experience

In a time when the news cycle is especially toxic and seems to create more division than unification, stories like these need to be amplified.

NC State football has a ton going on. They are learning the playbook, competing for positions, meeting with the media and getting ready for classes. However, in the midst of all that, they are making time for the community.

NC State partnered with GiGi’s Playhouse to bring young fans with down syndrome to Carter-Finley Stadium for a true Wolfpack gameday experience.

Before we get into the videos, images, and tweets from what they dubbed “Victory Day,” we’d like to just link you over to the GiGi’s Playhouse website, where if you feel inclined, you can read about and donate to their cause…

I asked one of the participants what his favorite part about tonight was.. he replied, “Inclusion. Tonight I feel included.” These stories are why I’m in this profession. Don’t miss it tomorrow night on @ABC11_WTVD #ABC11 @PackFootball @PackAthletics @gigisraleigh pic.twitter.com/bCSETVLxQh

— Bridget Condon (@BridgetABC11) August 15, 2018

Thanks to @NCSUCheer, @GiGis_Playhouse Raleigh, the NCSU band, @PeteRoley and our 35+ new friends and their families for making this a night to remember. #VictoryDay #1Pack1Goal pic.twitter.com/Ev4KetyoqA

— NC State Football (@PackFootball) August 15, 2018

“This is the best thing we’ve ever done.” @AJCole90 on tonight’s visit with some special friends from @GiGis_Playhouse Raleigh #VictoryDay #1Pack1Goal
🐺🐺🏈 pic.twitter.com/sKcPXjADSQ

— NC State Football (@PackFootball) August 14, 2018

Shoutout to @gigisraleigh and @PackFootball! Great partnership for #VictoryDay. #inclusionmatters #touchdown pic.twitter.com/qYOaN5aunO

— Candace Sweat (@WRALCandace) August 15, 2018

Victory Day last night with Gigi’s Playhouse was special. Our players had the opportunity to give Special Needs Children a Gameday experience! I’m not sure who had more fun. Moved the spirit for sure. https://t.co/2LqrKpMFTe

— Dave Doeren (@StateCoachD) August 15, 2018

Being at NC State is more than just football! Thank you @PackFootball for giving me the chance to Impact @GiGis_Playhouse today had a great time tonight !! 🤘🏾🐺 pic.twitter.com/8gNsDzeAEv

— Kishawn Miller (@Is_That_Right_) August 15, 2018

While wins and banners are what the Pack is chasing every day, sometimes it’s nice to take a break and appreciate things that matter a lot more in the grand scheme of things.

Good on you, NC State!