Football coach with Down syndrome retires from Vicksburg Bulldogs

Travis Van is retiring from his role as an assistant football coach for the Vicksburg Bulldogs in Michigan.

Van, who has Down syndrome, spent 16 years on the sidelines of the high school football program. He became a fixture of the community after graduating in 2010, known for providing energy, dance moves, and encouragement to the players. The relationship between Van and head coach Tom Marchese began when Van was a student.

Marchese recalled a similar experience with a team manager in Pennsylvania and ensured Van always had a place on the team. Van's father, Roger Van, joined the coaching staff only because the school agreed to include his son in the role. The community embraced Van, and he became a recognizable face in various athletic programs, including basketball. The school honored Van during a rivalry game against Three Rivers this fall.

The community and players recognized him as a legend, and the school presented him with a framed No. 7 jersey. While Van is stepping away from the daily grind of coaching practices, his family plans to remain involved with the team. He will still attend games on Friday nights and may continue to lead the team onto the field.