The Lions are typically loaded with talent, but their physical strength isn't the focus.

Head football coach, Gordon Carter, says its their character and heart that will carry them to victory this season.

Gilbert High School Sr. Josh Carter has more than his fellow players this year backing him up on the field, he has his entire hometown.

"We are stronger as a team this year, the floods really brought us together," Carter said.

After the flood waters destroyed homes, businesses and roads in southern Mingo County in May, students at Gilbert High School didn't take a summer vacation.

Instead they banned together and went to work cleaning up the devastation left behind.

Coach Carter says now that things have settled down, the community wanted to return the favor.

"The kids really worked hard," coach Carter added.

Meet the Lions organizer and Gilbert High School cheer coach, Jessica Houck, says the event showcases a school and town with perseverance.

The Lions survived a team building challenge like no other during the off-season and you'll see that spirit on game day.

"I hope they take this experience and use it as a lesson later on in life, they can look back and know that they have accomplished many things," coach Carter said.