DeSoto celebrated its remarkable journey to a state championship with a vibrant parade on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The football team, having started the season as underdogs, danced and sang atop a decorated float adorned with balloons, commemorating their successful season and third state title in four years.
The players, clad in state championship T-shirts and sporting gold medals earned at AT&T Stadium on December 20, enjoyed a well-deserved celebration alongside their supportive community. A fleet of Corvettes, carrying local dignitaries, led the parade toward DeSoto High School, where players joyfully hopped off their float to join the festivities.
“It”s just a blessing, just a day for us to enjoy ourselves,” remarked a player who recently signed with USC. “I appreciate the community. The whole year they showed out at every game, especially in the big games.”
The parade was a grand affair, featuring cheerleaders, a marching band, and a line of open-air roadster Slingshots. Fans lined the route, cheering as the celebration unfolded.
DeSoto ISD Superintendent Usamah Rodgers expressed pride in the school”s achievements, noting, “In the four years I”ve been the superintendent, we have had three state championships. This championship probably meant the most because nobody saw it coming. But our kids believed in themselves and the coaches worked hard, so this celebration is huge.” He praised the students for their tenacity and grit throughout the season.
Abe Cooper Jr., a member of the school board, added, “It”s what we expect. It”s not easy; however, we will never lower our standards.” The championship parades have become a cherished tradition for the school, which has built a strong football program despite a decline in enrollment.
“Just a great moment,” said Michael Green Jr., a 2006 DeSoto graduate who now works for the district. “DeSoto is a place about tradition, so this is one of the traditions we hold near and dear.”
DeSoto coach Claude Mathis reflected on the challenges faced by the team this season, stating, “They overcame so much. Everybody had counted them out. We had to dig deep. Our kids kept believing in us, and it came together. They had a chance to build their own legacy, and they did it.” Mathis also made history by becoming one of only two Black head coaches in Texas to win three University Interscholastic League football state titles.
Looking ahead, DeSoto is expected to be a strong contender for the state championship next season, particularly after moving out of the UIL”s top classification. Cooper emphasized the importance of this victory for the community, stating, “It really lifts the community and gives the younger generation something to look forward to.” He noted the immense potential of the upcoming classes, indicating a bright future for the program.
As the parade concluded, the city of DeSoto basked in the glory of the football team”s triumph, solidifying its place in local sports history.
