FORNEY, Texas — After the tragic loss of a teammate on Tuesday night, the Forney High School softball team’s Regional Semi-Final playoff series against Mansfield Lake Ridge was postponed.
FORNEY, Texas — After the tragic loss of a teammate on Tuesday night, the Forney High School softball team’s Regional Semi-Final playoff series against Mansfield Lake Ridge was postponed.
School officials say the series has been rescheduled to begin Thursday night, but the players will be playing for much more than a victory — honoring and cherishing the memory of their teammate, Emily Galiano, who’s life was cut short far too soon in a vehicle-related accident.
“We’ve never been more heartbroken,” Forney ISD Athletic Director Neal Weaver stated on the district’s website. “Choked with compassion, stunned for our family of kids and their parents and coaches.”
“We’re reminded that life is so precious and so fleet, and we are re-given the perspective that people matter more than all the rest,” he said. “Our team has dedicated their season, themselves, their year, to Emily. No matter where or when it ends, this love never will.”
The district has established a counseling center in the Forney High School library and will have counselors on campus for the remainder of the week.
“When times are at their worst, the people of our Forney community always prove to be at their best,” Forney ISD Superintendent Suzanne McWilliams stated, in part. “I thank you all for your patience and understanding during this very difficult situation and ask that you please continue to lift this family and all those touched by this tragedy up in prayer.”
A benefit fund for the Galiano family has been established, with permission from the family, at American National Bank of Texas located at 401 Pinson Road in Forney, Texas. Donations can be made to the fund by mentioning Emily Galiano’s name.
The Forney High School softball team will begin their best-of-three playoff series against Mansfield Lake Ridge on Thursday at 6 p.m. in Kennedale. Game 2 will be played on Friday at 6 p.m. at Rockwall high School. Game 3, if necessary, will also be played in Rockwall at a time to be determined.
We are with you......@Forney_Rabbits pic.twitter.com/w1jaxQVyvw
— Lake Ridge Softball (@lakeridgesb) May 17, 2017
Weaver’s complete statement:
We’ve never been more heartbroken. Choked with compassion, stunned for our family of kids and their parents and coaches. It was the saddest day. But pure hearts led. A campus and community wilted, and then blossomed in support as it always does. We’re reminded that life is so precious and so fleet, and we are re-given the perspective that people matter more than all the rest. We will celebrate her! She will represent what is best in us. We’ll honor her family. Love each other. Pray for healing. In the darkness or the light, we will be Forney. Our team has dedicated their season, themselves, their year, to Emily. No matter where or when it ends, this love never will. Their Regional Semi Final Softball Series will take place – beginning on Thursday in Kennedale at 6 pm. Game two is on Friday at 6 pm at Rockwall High School. Game three if necessary will be in Rockwall, time is to be determined. Go Jackrabbits.
