SWARTZ CREEK -- It's not cheap to play football, whether you're on a winning team or not.
Especially during these days of pay to play.
Some moms in Swartz Creek asked NBC25 to help them publicize a fundraiser they're having to help supplement the costs incurred by the football families.
To say the Swartz Creek community is excited about their football team is an understatement.
"Everyone is excited in the community, the parents, everyone is excited about it," Pam James, Swartz Creek's DJ James' mom, said.
And they should be. It's the first time the Dragons have gone 6-0 and it will be their first trip ever in school history to the playoffs.
"The community's been great. very supportive ever since day one," First-year Head Coach Brad Brown said. "The boys worked really hard and they deserved every win."
The Dragons have an explosive offense, led by their QB Jaylen Schoenfield, who's averaging nearly 300 yards per game.
"When you have a great offensive line, it's easy to pass the ball," Schoenfield, a senior at Swartz Creek, said. "When you've got the weapons, makes a difference."
Senior Wide Receiver Max Cummings, a favorite target of Schoenfield, credits team chemistry for their success.
"The line is keeping Jay clean, Jay's giving me the ball in space," Cummings said. "With an offense like this, it's easy."
What's not easy: footing the bill for jerseys, socks, team meals, and a banquet, which this year's football families have been asked to do.
That can add up, which is why some of the senior moms called an audible.
"We're doing a raffle at every varsity and JV home game," James said. "We will pick winners at the banquet."
Eleven baskets in all, filled with goods donated by the community, plus a signed framed photo of the 2012 Dragons is what you could get. The $5 per ticket goes back to the team.
The mom's are hoping to supplement the costs, so all the Dragons have to worry about is continuing their winning ways.
"I feel like everyone is excited and can't wait for our first playoff game," Schoenfield said.
The Swartz Creek moms are selling the raffle tickets at every home football game.
For more information, contact Pam James at pamjam17@charter.net
