LAKEVILLE, Minn. (KMSP) -
It's tradition for the Lakeville South football team to kick off the season with a celebration -- but this year, the football family is dedicated the entire season to a senior who won't be on the field this year.
"I want him to know we're playing for him. He's not off the team. Nobody forgot him," said teammate Kyle Fatturi. "We're still a team, and he's part of this team."
No one has worked harder to be there than Dillon Borowicz, but he's the only senior who won't be signing autographs this year.
"It's pretty rough on us because Dillon is just a smiling kid," said teammate Austin Britnell. "When someone gets hurt like this -- an injury that bad, it just makes us realize we need to come together."
The 18-year-old is recovering from surgery after a swimming accident left him paralyzed from the chest down.
"I said, 'I wish it was me in that chair,'" Dillon's father, Scott Borowicz, told FOX 9 News. "He said, 'No, you don't, Dad.' I said, 'Why not?' He goes, 'I'd switch right back with you.' That's just the attitude he's got."
Scott Borowicz said his son doesn't want anyone to feel sorry for him, but the Cougars already know Dillon is a fighter. This year, his strength is their inspiration and they'll be wearing number 74 on their helmets as a reminder.
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