COLUMBIA, Ill — Just over two months ago 15-year-old Crawford Bryant was killed in a car crash. Since then, teams and community members have rallied together to honor him. Bryant's soccer team won the Super-Sectional Championship on Saturday, which means they're now going to state!
The journey that got the team there is truly one of redemption.
Brian Reeves, Columbia High School Principal, said the team's strength is unlike any other.
"They've had a phenomenal year, obviously started off with tragedy and they've stuck through it, and they persevered," he said.
Even though Bryant isn't physically on the field anymore, his legacy lives on.
Bryant's teammates continue to wear his number around their arms, while his jersey and his cleats sit right beside the bench. A tradition that Reeves said has been unbelievable to witness.
"That's been the team's goal after every game. They take his jersey out there with him, celebrate the win with him, and it's been incredible," he said. "They had an amazing game on Wednesday. They were down 2-0 and came back and won 3-2 in overtime and they're just, they're playing inspired right now," he said.
Before Bryant's accident, according to Coach Jamey Bridges, the Eagles hadn't won a single game. Since then, they've gone undefeated.
"It makes you proud, makes you proud. They're representing the school, and they're doing it the right way. Coach Bridges does an outstanding job with his players," he said.
A coach, who according to Reeves, has made his team stronger despite an unthinkable loss.
"He a leader. He's led his players, and it just makes you proud that he's part of our organization, part of the school," he said.
Reeves said not only the school, but the community, has grown closer.
"The community's been amazing. Neighboring communities have been outstanding, and we've come together more as one," he said.
With the state championship on the horizon, every goal scored is for Bryant.
Coach Bridges told 5 On Your Side the team will be heading to state Wednesday, Nov. 6, and will play Thursday, Nov. 7 in the final four.
