Call it an out-pouring of school spirit – minus the liquids – as an anonymous group of Straughn Tiger parents use Solo cups to motivate players on the football field. The project also works to give an inspirational message to those in the stands.

Visitors are greeted with a black and white creation of “Tiger Life.” And while it may seem like a strange thing to do – using cups in a stadium fence – it’s actually “quite neat” to see, said Straughn teacher Joyce Mitchell.

“This group of parents and supporters don’t want any publicity,” Mitchell said. “They want all the glory to go to the students. They work hard to make sure that the teams, the cheerleaders and the band know that they appreciate all their hard work.”

Mitchell said the group also creates a scripture verse on the opposite side of the stadium.

“They let a football player pick the verse,” she said.  “They like for it to be something that has meaning to them – a saying that can give inspiration when it’s needed the most.”

This week, support is greatly needed as Straughn travels to Dale County Friday for the second round of the Class 3A state playoffs.

Mitchell said the school is hosting a community pep rally Thursday at 8 p.m.

“We usually have those in the stadium, but the location moved to the band practice field,” she said. “Our girls are playing (basketball) in Montgomery that afternoon, so we moved the time so that we could have as many people there as possible. We encourage everyone to come out and support those Straughn Tigers.”