John Lewis Invictus Academy (JLA) wrapped up the first half of the school year on a thrilling note, celebrating its championship football team and cheerleaders with an exciting awards ceremony before the semester break.
The Royal Lions football team went 7-1 and defeated Long Middle School to win the APS Middle School Football Championship. They continued to build on their championship season with a 48-6 win against the Dekalb County Middle School champions, Cedar Grove Middle School.
After an entertaining highlight reel showcasing the most exciting moments from the season and a few congratulatory video messages from JLA interim principal Donna Davis and Congresswoman Nikema Williams, the football players were awarded a championship ring necklace along with a trophy and a congratulatory certificate honoring their championship season.
Adding to the jubilation, the John Lewis Invictus Academy cheerleaders were also celebrated for their accomplishments this year after winning first place in the APS District Cheer Competition. They were presented with individual trophies and congratulatory certificates as parents and staff members cheered in the auditorium.
“It means the world just to show them that we love them and care about them,” JLA athletic director and head football coach Greg Spriggs said. “We’re proud of them for all the hard work they put in and it paid off bringing home our first championship for the cheerleaders and two times for the football team.”
After each student-athlete received their awards, they were joined on stage by the family of the late Congressman John Lewis, who traveled to celebrate the occasion with the students.
