A boy with Down syndrome just might just be his football team’s MVP

by Kristie Smith from Dallas News:
Bill and Sandie Wood waited anxiously on the delivery of their son, Chase, 15 years ago. Chase’s older brother, Austin, was also excited for his younger brother to arrive.
None of them saw it coming when the doctor walked into the room and informed them that their child had Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development.
“We were clueless,” Sandie said. “I had never heard of Chase’s condition. I did not realize how much help I was going to need and thought I could do it on my own but quickly realized that was not the case. Thank God for DSG — Down Syndrome Guild.”
DSG is a group of parents who help others who have children born with disabilities.
Now, 15 years later, Chase has grown to 5 feet 9 inches and is 168 pounds of athletic ability. Since his seventh-grade year, he has been a member of Rockwall ISD’s Williams Middle School Wildcat football team playing defensive tackle. His younger brother, Seth, assists and is one of his strongest supporters.
It was not easy for Chase to be a part of the team. While head coach Kip Muhl was receptive to Sandie’s proposal, he understandably was concerned about safety issues. However, after consideration, the coach agreed to allow Chase to be a Wildcat.