AUSTIN -- The homecoming festivities were in full swing at Westwood High School Friday night. But Friday's game was less about winning or losing and more about a life lesson learned off the field.
The Westwood Warriors were on fire as they entered the field for their homecoming game against Lake Travis High School.
Working quietly behind the scenes, like he has for several years, was Ty Harvey.
The 17-year-old is a trainer for the Westwood football team. Harvey was also one of the candidates for Westwood High School's Homecoming King.
The buzz around Westwood High School at the Homecoming parade Wednesday was that Harvey was the clear favorite to snag the Homecoming King spot.
His popularity and reputation around the high school preceded him.
"He's a great kid. From what my girls say he's just a wonderful guy and he's so important to the school spirit. Everyone just enjoys being with him so much," Martha Webb, a Westwood parent, said.
"He's one of the most caring people I've ever met." said Westwood football player Jacob Overstreet. "He gets it from his family, his friends, everybody. It's a big community around Ty."
A big community surrounding a rather extraordinary individual.
Harvey has Down Syndrome, a birth defect which can lead to mental and physical challenges. Yet, he hasn't let it stop him from living his life. Harvey was awarded Eagle Scout this spring and on Wednesday he was featured on a float as one of six Homecoming King nominees.
At half-time came the moment so many had been waiting for. Announced from the big speakers, Harvey was declared the newest Westwood High School Homecoming King.
At half-time came the moment so many had been waiting for. Announced from the big speakers, Harvey was declared the newest Westwood High School Homecoming King.
