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Big dreams for devastated New Orleans school

NFL's Saints give $200,000 grant for ‘9th Ward Field of Dreams’

Image: Carver High schoolAP
Carver High School athletic director Brian Bordainick, left, student Richard Davis, center, and coach Shyrone Carey stand in front of their New Orleans school on Wednesday.

The football team, which has sent at least four players to the NFL, was reduced to 28 players last year. They practiced in an abandoned lot behind the school trailers. The kickers practice on a single goal post that frames an abandoned house.

The Rams had no stadium before Katrina, so they continued playing home games at a field across town. They lost every game on the 2008 schedule.

The new players had almost no experience.

“We had to show them things like how to take a three-point stance, how to line up,” coach Shyrone Carey said.

This year, with only one player lost to graduation, there is optimism.

“I think we’re a lot more comfortable, and in a lot better shape,” said Tevin Ratcliff, 16, a wide receiver who hopes to earn a football scholarship.

Carey thinks that might not be just a pipe dream.

“I think some of these kids will be good enough for junior college or Division III scholarships,” said Carey, who played at LSU. “They are hard workers.”

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Image: Snee, 8, son of New York Giants player Chris Snee and head coach Coughlin's grandson plays in the confetti after the New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game in Indianapolis
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The band is back, too, clad in new green and orange uniforms.

“We were wearing these real loud orange jogging suits,” band director Frank Lewis said. “This year, we’re looking sharp. The kids love it.”

If things go as planned, ground will be broken for the stadium in July. A track meet is set for February 2010.

“I’m all for it,” said Walter Mason, 56, who returns to the area to go to church, but has not yet restored his home. “Maybe it will let people know we’re still alive back here.”

© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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