Not just a mascot: This high school football dog plays a key role in the game

Sometimes, the news reel is not missiles dropping on civilians, sex-scandals, or economic downfall. Sometimes, it’s just a happy dog playing football.

When fans turn up to watch a game at Anderson County High School, they’re not looking at the scoreboard. Between the whistles and the cheers, one four-legged teammate has managed to steal the spotlight: Ella, a chocolate Lab with a job that makes her the most unlikely star on the field.

Her task is simple—fetch the tee after every kickoff. But simplicity doesn’t make it ordinary. The second the ball sails downfield, Ella bolts across the turf before her jaws gently snap up the small piece of plastic. She makes her way back to the sideline, tail bouncing, greeted by applause and laughter from the adoring fans.

Ella’s fame came about first as a casual idea. One of the coaches floated the suggestion of bringing in a dog, and with just a bit of training, she figured out exactly what to do. Now she’s as much a part of game night as the band or the players themselves.

What makes Ella’s role remarkable is that she seems to thrive off the fun. She doesn’t wait for treats, doesn’t hesitate, and doesn’t need convincing. The act of running and retrieving is its own reward that reminds people about the essence of sport: enjoyment.

The Anderson County players admit that she lightens the mood, with one player admitting that “As a kicker, I need this — I forget to go back and grab the tee!" Seeing Ella charge into action has a way of softening the edges and making people forget about the pressure.

On Friday nights in Tennessee, Ella isn’t just a dog doing a trick—she’s a reminder of what makes sport special.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.