LAKEVILLE, Minn. (KMSP) -
A Lakeville South football player, paralyzed in a swimming accident, continues to amaze his coach and teammates. Despite his injury, Dillon Borowicz didn't want to miss his team's first home football game.
Facepaint and helmets helped hide the tears Thursday night, as number 74 surprised his teammates and took the field. The crowd erupted in applause for a player who's touched a lot of hearts.
"We were expecting him just to be on our webcam," said Lakeville South player Tyler Lattery. "This is way better than that. Makes us want to win for him that much more."
"It just feels good to be back and see all the love and support Lakeville has been giving me," Borowicz said. "Feels really good."
Dillon Borowicz never expected to be sitting on the sidelines for the home opener. The Lakeville South senior suffered a paralyzing injury when he dove into a swimming pool back in July.
"I'm here just for support," he said. "I don't want to soak up too much of the limelight or anything. Just want to support my team."
The Cougars are overwhelmed and teammates have dedicated the entire season to Dillon.
"It gets us going, I don't know what to say," football coach Larry Thompson said.
The 18 year-old continues to make small strides in rehab and doesn't plan on giving up until he's back on the field, walking.
"Everyday I just tell myself God wouldn't have done this to me if he didn't think I could handle it," Borowicz said.
