On Thursday, November 4, representatives from Hibbett Sports made a surprise appearance at South Cobb High School and brought a couple of really large checks with them—both in size and amounts. One for the Boys' basketball team and the other for the Girls' team.

Surrounded by the Eagle band and cheer squad, the Girls' team did not know why they were gathered in the Lecture Hall instead of the court for practice. A recorded video announcement displayed on the screen from WNBA star Aari McDonald soon broke the exciting news:

"Recognizing the role that community support plays in building young athletes like yourselves," said Ms. McDonald, "I'm here to announce 'Support Her Sole' with Nike and Hibbett Sports. This program recognizes the grit and determination that is instilled in each of you. Nike and Hibbett wants to make sure you start the year off strong and are donating 10,000 dollars toward your team!"

The short video was greeted by shouts and applause from the entire room as Hibbett's Adam Galloway took the stage next. As the District Sales Manager for Hibbett Sports, it was Adam's honor to present the check to Coach Lasonia White and the Eagle Girls. 

"South Cobb High School is one of ten women's basketball programs across the country being recognized for their hard work—both academically and on the court," Mr. Galloway said. "We believe in continuing to support women through the 'Support Her Sole' initiative and giving back to the communities that we serve. On behalf of Hibbett and Nike, thank you for letting us be a part of the South Cobb High School community here in Austell, and congratulations on being selected for this donation!"

"This means so much to us," said Coach White. "This will go a long way toward getting our girls everything they need to succeed this season. We plan to use it to purchase some new equipment in the locker room and uniforms and shoes."

Earlier in the day, the Boys head coach Hollis Bethea also received a check for $3250 for his team from Hibbett's 'Sole School' program. 

"We are very grateful and honored for Hibbett to donate such a generous amount to our program," said Coach Bethea. "It is a perfect example of how Hibbett is supporting our athletic program and our team's needs."

South Cobb Principal Tommy Perry was on hand for the presentation to the Girls' team and told them that this was the beginning of something great. "It's about bringing school pride," he said. "This is something we really needed. Getting back to some sort of normalcy after the year we had in 2020 is important for us, and I'm very much looking forward to it." 

Principal Perry told the teams to pursue region championships and gave them a mini pep-talk before the band launched into a closing song for the celebration. Both coaches were smiling and optimistic, as well as looking forward to their upcoming seasons.

"We are going to build on last season," Coach White said. "A couple of years ago, we went to state for the first time in 15 years, and we have our sights set on that once again." 

In his first season with the Eagles, Coach Bethea is ready to get started in competitive play. "It's a been great few months building this team and getting to know the players here," he said. "The guys have been working hard and continue to make good progress. I am very excited about our future!"

Great job, South Cobb, and thank you, Hibbett and Nike, for your generosity! Let's do this, Eagles!