Youth football team holds first practice after theft of trailer, equipment

They haven't played a game this season, but the NCSL Buccaneers youth football team is already claiming victory.

\"The community stepped up and did a lot of things,\" said head coach Michael Galloway.

Two weeks ago, thieves stole the team's trailer. It was full of equipment players and parents raised money to buy. One week later, some of it was found dumped behind an abandoned building.

\"It's been a roller-coaster, a roller-coaster of emotions,\" Galloway said.

The trailer is still gone, but a $4,500 donation from a concerned citizen will change that in a matter of weeks.

\"It makes me feel good that everybody can come together over something like this and to make sure the boys and team keep going on,\" said LaShonda Kendrick, parent.

For now, from their home, to the car, to practice, coaches will carry in the pads, cones and jerseys. It's a stumbling block that won't keep them down, but instead be used as lesson.

\"Things happen in life where we as a society have to be honest with our children,\" said Galloway.

The 80 children on the team belong to a league that's not just focused on being great on the field, but great off of it.

LaShonda Kendrick's eight-year-old son has played for two years.

\"It teaches him a lot because he knows how he's supposed to act in school,\" she said. \"They really stress that in practice.\"

\"Can't stop won't stop,\" said Galloway. \"Keep the dream alive.\"

Galloway said that's the Buccaneers new mantra.

The team and entire Neighborhood Children's Sports League appreciates everyone's support through this ordeal. The season kicks off in August.