Funds being raised for 4th monument

Albany’s Champions Park will receive an upgrade in 2024 as fundraising for a monument to honor the Albany Lions’ fourth state football championship is now underway.

Three six-foot-by-sixfoot granite monuments honoring championship teamsfrom1960,1961,and 2022 were installed and dedicatedinOctoberbefore the homecoming game against Roscoe. Plans to expand the display started right after the Lions repeated asClass2ADivision II champs in December.

“We’rejustexcitedabout having an opportunity to put another one up,” head coach Denney Faith said.

Faith said players from the 2023 team have been sized for championship rings, expected to be delivered in April. A presentation ceremony will be scheduled once dates are confirmed.

The first three monuments bear the names of players,coachesandcheerleaders from the respective seasons as well as game results of each year.

The original project cost $45,000, raised by the Albany AthleticBoosterClub. Thefundraisinggoalforthe fourthmonumenthasbeen set at $17,000.

Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Albany Athletic Booster ClubMonumentAccountat ClearForkBankinAlbany.

For more information, contact Albany ISD superintendent Jonathan Scott at 325-762-2823.