From evacuee to starting Quarterback

[TexasStooge]

By BERT LOZANO / WFAA ABC 8

DALLAS, Texas - From the ruins of Louisiana comes a story of survival, perserverence and inspiration.

An evacuee now attending a Dallas high school was set to suit up and play Friday night as his team's starting quarterback.

Christian Riley came to Bryan Adams High School with a strong arm and a strong will to play football.

"He brings a lot of leadership to our team," said Bryan Adams head coach Mike Smiddy. "Christian is a fast learner; he picked up real quick."

In that short time, he has earned the top quarterback position.

"The team just accepted me the first day I came, like I've been here for four years - and I've only been here for three weeks," Riley said. "I just wanted to have a senior season in football; I wasn't going to be able to share that with my family and friends at home."

Riley is one of three Hurricane Katrina evacuees from Louisiana on the team. He has lost so much, but he hasn't lost his talent - which coaches quickly recognized.

"As good an athlete as he is, he's really ten times the kid," Smiddy said. "He's just a tremendous leader with lots of character."

Riley misses his teammates back home, but has built a bond with players here, including former starting quarterback Daviaun Moore.

"I love it," Moore said. "Ever since Christian came, I get to play receiver."

But Riley will quickly get a true test of Texas high school football. The team is preparing to play Carter High, the 19th-ranked team in the state.

But, the new quarterback has confidence.

"They've become like a second family to me," he said.

[secretforecaster]

Another feel good story...we need more of these! Thanks TS!

[beachbum_al]

Fairhope also has a starting quarterback from MS (I believe he is from Bay St Louis) And we are so happy to have him and his family here along with all of the other people from the area.

[HurricaneQueen]

I just looked up the game results and unfortunately they lost 47-13. Sounds as if the were up against a formidable opponent.

[TexasStooge]

Another feel good story...we need more of these! Thanks TS!

You're welcome.