Apalachee football returns after coach killed in school shooting

He died in the shooting, leaving behind a wife and two young daughters.

“He has a desk in the coach’s office, and we kind of put a little memorial there,” Hancock said. “We tell stories about him in the coach’s office. Someone will make a sarcastic comment and say, “Oh, Ricky.” I would have liked that.’ He would have been the one to cause trouble in this matter.

“The children feel the same way, they will tell their stories. And that’s how we heal.”

The Apalachee football team was embraced during the memorial service.

The Atlanta Falcons hosted the team at practice in early September, and on Sunday two Apalachee players served as honorary captains in the coin toss against the Kansas City Chiefs. Other members of the team spent time on the Falcons sideline before kickoff.

On Tuesday, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson spent time with Apalachee football players and other students as he visited the school and said he plans to attend the Apalachee home game next week.

The Wildcats are also supported by their hosts in away games.

Clarke Central coach David Perno told USA TODAY Sports via text message: “We are donating ticket proceeds to help the families of the victims.” Signs will also be put up.