BERLIN, Md. -- The enchanting glow of Christmas lights illuminated Berlin on Thursday as the town's annual Christmas parade kicked off. This year's festivities, marked by an abundance of holiday cheer, welcomed some special guests who stole the spotlight—the Stephen Decatur High School football team, fresh off their triumphant state championship win.
The festive procession down Main Street turned into a spectacle as the state champion Seahawks, coaches, and even some proud parents made their way through the crowd. The atmosphere was electric, with people reaching out for high-fives and showering the team with deafening cheers. The players, basking in the glory of their recent victory, undoubtedly felt like true superstars.
Amid all the attractions, including motorcycles, friends of Santa Claus, and dancing gingerbread men, the state champions unquestionably became the life of the party. Their presence resonated with the thousands of spectators lining Main Street, made clear by the resounding cheers and applause that followed their every move.
Jakai Brittingham, a member of the team, described the experience.
"I was telling them during the parade this feels like a super bowl moment, it was unreal man" said Brittingham.
AJ Kolb, another team member, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community.
"It's really unreal, you know, just with all the support and everything from you know our supporters, fans, everybody at Decatur, our teachers, all our coaches, it was just an amazing season and couldn't ask for anything better you know, 14-0," said Kolb.
The festive celebration included the trademark Seahawks' victory dance.
"Oh the strut, we started doing that after our first playoff game at home against Easton and after we beat them it just started to become a little trend of ours," said Brittingham.
As the players danced their way into history, the parade became a symbol of the team's journey and the community's unwavering support.
Reflecting on the experience, Kolb expressed that every moment of the celebration would be cherished, marking an unforgettable chapter in their lives.
Despite reveling in the glory of their state title, one player revealed the team is looking ahead to next year. With their eyes set on the future, the Seahawks aim to return to the playoffs, aspiring to once again grace Berlin's Christmas parade with their presence—perhaps as reigning champions.