WS Chronicle

WSSU Rams honor injured freshman safety with helmet decal.

By Tevin Stinson

The Chronicle

When Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) took to the field on Saturday, every player wore a decal featuring the number 28 in honor of safety Marquise Gaddy.

Gaddy was injured during a team practice on Thursday, Sept. 24. According to representatives from the team, Gaddy suffered a spinal cord injury during a tackling drill

the Rams had been doing all season. Initial reports listed Gaddy’s condition as serious but stable. After a number of tests, it was determined that Gaddy would not need surgery and would make a full recovery.

In a statement released by the university, Tonia Walker, WSSU director of athletics, said she was relived with the positive prognosis.

“I am quite impressed with the quick response and meticulous efforts of our athletic training team and coaching staff leading up to the arrival of EMT’s,” Walker said.

The freshman from Mallard Creek High School in Charlotte is one of a number of freshmen earning playing time on a Rams team that was still looking to earn their first win of the season going into last week’s showdown with Elizabeth City State University.

To show their support for Gaddy, the Rams’ Athletic Department decided to add his number to all the helmets. The decals were worn on the back the Rams newest helmet that features a Ram on one side and a outline of the state on the other. The Rams will wear the decals honoring Gaddy for the remainder of the season.

During the match up with Elizabeth City State University, the Rams got off to a slow start but were able to regain their footing in the second quarter and didn’t look back. The final score was 34-19.

After the game, the team’s hearts and minds were still with their teammate. Kienus Boulware, head coach of the Rams, said he we was glad to get the victory but the game had a different feel.

Boulware kept the game ball from Saturday’s victory to give to Gaddy.

On Sunday, the family released a statement thanking WSSU and the community for all the support they have received over the past few days. According to the statement, Gaddy is now performing physical therapy.

This week, the Rams will continue conference play when they face off against Chowan University at Bowman Gray Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 3.