20 minutes to kickoff/Mooney students ready

20 minutes to kickoff/Mooney students ready

CANTON

Cardinal Mooney students put on red-and-gold duct-tape “crowns” about 20 minutes before the kickoff of the Mooney-Shawnee state championship football game.

Senior Alyssa Culp said the hats were made as a school project to celebrate the Cardinals’ try for an eighth state crown.

“Mooney football can’t even be described to anyone not in the Mooney family,” said Culp as the Cardinals prepared for their second state title in three seasons. “You don’t really know how close we really are. It’s just the most incredible feeling.”

Senior Simone Zeoli’s left shoulder was exposed to the 38 degrees chills. The dance line member didn’t care.

“I’m cold but I’m so excited,” said Zeoli who planned to bundle up after pregame festivities ended.

Senior Matt McCauley said the Cardinals’ student section hasn’t created any cheers against Shawnee.

“Our thing is that we are for Mooney and against no one,” McCauley said. “We’re here to cheer for our guys.”