CARROLL COUNTY, Ga. — A local community is remembering a beloved classmate and football player who touched the lives of many across metro Atlanta.
"My heart hurts for the family, his mom and dad, for our students, our football team. It was just a sad, sad moment when we heard of Chase's passing," Principal David Brooks told Channel 2's Berndt Petersen.
McDaniel's inspiring story captured our hearts in May when he took his date to the prom on the day he was diagnosed. His courage is what his fellow Trojans said they remembered the most about the senior.
"Fight. That's the No. 1 word that comes to mind is how much Chase fought," head football coach Sean Calhoun said.
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McDaniel, who wore the No. 42, wasn't well enough to play this season. But before every game, he picked a teammate to wear his jersey.
McDaniel loved his school and returned to class as often as his health allowed. Last month, his classmates elected him one of the homecoming kings.
Through it all, McDaniel never gave up and his parents Kiki and Tracy never lost faith.
"His mom and dad are strong examples of faith and courage. There's a lot to be learned from watching how those two wonderful people dealt with this situation and the battle Chase went through. My heart goes out to them," Brooks said.
Calhoun said each game is dedicated to McDaniel and so far the team is undefeated heading into the second round of the playoffs.
When the Trojans take the field Friday night, each player will have a McDaniel sticker on his helmet and a No. 42 wristband.
"Chase was very humble. He would just want us to go out there and try to win. But all of us to honor him is the least we can do," Calhoun said.
Brooks said the school is working on other plans to remember McDaniel.
Funeral arrangements have been made McDaniel.
The family will receive friends at Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel on Friday from noon until 6 p.m. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Crossroads Church. Interment will follow in West Georgia Memorial Park with the Carrollton High School Football Team serving as pallbearers.
The family is asking people to please wear their No. 42 shirts for the funeral to honor McDaniel.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking the public to help carry out Chase's vision of providing new shoes for children who are less fortunate. Monetary donations can be made to:
C/O: Chase the Victory Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel P.O. Box 215, Carrollton, GA 30112