HOUSTON — Michigan and Washington’s bands added a few more pieces of entertainment in downtown Houston for the College Football Playoff events on Sunday, but a special group of people got some recognition and extra attention: Teachers.
Runners took off for the trophy run Sunday morning -- all proceeds going towards the Houston Loves Teachers campaign. But the love doesn't stop there.
The countdown to the big game is on, but for now, we'll look to the finish line as racers take off for the college football playoffs Trophy Run in downtown Houston.
"We’re happy that the weather is cooperating with us. We’ve had a beautiful weekend through all the public activities," said Chris Massey with the Houston Host Committee.
The winners won't win the coveted trophy, but they'll win game tickets. All the money from registration will go to a team of teachers, thanks to the Houston Loves Teachers Campaign. Massey said honoring teachers is a fulfilling component of the work they've been doing for years.
"We all know teachers are unsung heroes oftentimes in our community and this is a great way where people can come out. Have a good time maybe get a little exercise when some tickets and celebrate their teachers," he said.
As runners finished their race outside, teachers of the year from across the country geared up inside for a moment turning into a quarterback of sorts.
"He and a few of our senior players, they kind of trained me and helped me. And I played football. I was the first girl in my town to play football," Indiana Teacher of the Year Tara Cocanower said.
Her training paid off. She put the football through the target winning $1,000 to use for classroom projects.
"All I wanted to do was bring something back to my school," she said. "So, that I could bless the other teachers. So, this money is not going to go for me and my classroom. It will go for the teachers that I love in that carry me throughout the hardships of the year."
Cocanower said she was grateful for the opportunity and hopes it brings more positive attention to those who play their position: teachers.
"Teachers are generous, selfless people. They have a heart for kids, and they give everything that they have," she said.
There's more appreciation for educators during the college football playoffs. Teachers who come with their certification or card can get a free 15-minute massage at the Houston Loves Teachers booth inside the George R. Brown.