The Brighton Cardinals made the school’s second appearance in the Quarterfinals last Friday night against the Henry County Patriots in Paris. The underdog Cardinals outlasted the traditional powerhouse Patriots 34-31 to advance to this week’s State Semifinals at Beech. At Patriot Stadium, the Cardinal faithful were in the house including Brighton High School Principal Christi Huffman. Other administrators were on hand. The Cardinal sideline also had alums like former Brighton athletes Brayden Helton and Kevin Johnson. The Brighton Band made the trip performing the same fight song as Henry County. The Brighton Band played their version last. And Cardinal Head Coach Robin Jacobs declared after the team huddle, “We’re now four quarters from Cookeville.” Jacobs also released a statement to the Brighton supporters after returning home from the game. “Thanks to everyone who believes in and supports Cardinal Football. Thank you so much for those who always keep us grounded and keep us going. You have my deepest admiration. I will never forget you guys ever. A huge thanks to my Mom and Dad always there. I love them a lot. Emily and Caroline, true Cards. I love you two (daughters) a lot along with Holden, Jeff and Colby. To my rock who puts me in my place, but is always first to greet me win or lose, Tena. But she is why I continue on bad days. She’s the best of me. And I love her more than anything. She’s been there through it all. Thanks. Thanks to all Card fans for your super support. We are now in Round Four, one more to go.”
Here are a few moments captured from the historic night for the Brighton Football Cardinals.
