ICYMI: Epic Christmas Gift Given To Football Team’s ‘No. 1 Fan’

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — Andrew Hayne is the Wiregrass Ranch High School Bulls’ biggest fan. He now has his own helmet to prove it.

That helmet, signed by every member of the team, was presented to the 18-year-old special needs student right before Pasco County Schools let out for the holiday break Thursday. Quarterback Chris Faddoul had the honor of giving Andrew the helmet.

Andrew “is obsessed with the Wiregrass football team,” said Chris, who turned 18 himself on Christmas Eve. “He would sometimes come in the locker room and give the team a pep talk before the game. So, we wanted to do something nice for him, especially since he never got a chance to get on the field.”

Chris said his coach suggested the idea of giving Andrew the signed helmet. It was decided Chris should make the presentation because the two teens have a special bond.

“He always goes crazy when he sees me, so when he offered me to give the helmet, I was thrilled,” Chris told Patch. “I always make Andrew feel like part of the team."

Chris, who Andrew and his friends simply call “the football player,” explained team members wear their jerseys on Friday before games. Chris began giving Andrew his No. 14 jersey to wear those days, he said.

Now, he’ll have his own helmet to show his Bulls pride.

The presentation was captured on video and shared on the Pasco County Schools’ Facebook page.

“Oh my God,” Andrew exclaimed as he saw what was inside the gift bag. “It's cool.”

The hug he gave Chris, however, really said it all.

Screenshot and video courtesy of Pasco County Schools