On Friday, August 30, 2024, during the first home football game of the season at Eagle Stadium, the New Albany High School Football Team paid tribute to Daniel Rako, a 2016 graduate of NAHS and long-time supporter of Eagle Football. Daniel passed away last winter. This special tribute took place between the first and second quarters of the game as a way to honor his memory and celebrate the impact he had on the New Albany community. The team will wear DR decals on their helmets the entire season to honor Daniel’s memory. Link to Daniel’s Obituary. 

Daniel's legacy was celebrated in several ways:

• Thursday, August 29: Daniel's mother, Jill Clark spoke to the football team before their dinner, sharing her inspirational "FINISH" talk.

• Friday, August 30, Plaques honoring both Daniel and Sue Knights, a beloved bus

  driver were unveiled in the Memorial Grove during a ceremony prior to the game. 

• Friday, August 30, 7:00 PM: Between the first and second quarters, the team honored Daniel, with his wheelchair placed on the sidelines in a touching tribute.

Over 140 shirts were sold in just 24 hours to show support for Daniel's family, with many attendees wearing them during the game. Daniel’s mantra, "It's Possible," resonated throughout the evening, as did the phrase "#TheDanielEffect," coined by Father Dennis at his funeral, reflecting the profound influence Daniel had on everyone who knew him.

“This was an opportunity for us as a community to come together to remember and honor the life of one of our own,” said Richie Wildenhaus, Athletic Director, New Albany - Plain Local Schools. “Daniel’s legacy will forever be a part of New Albany High School, and we wanted to ensure his memory is cherished and celebrated.”

The game served as a reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and the strong bonds that define our school community. 

You may view the dedication of the plaques at the Memorial Grove below.