Students from Picayune high school and junior high school gathered Tuesday afternoon to recognize the Maroon Tide football team for winning the state championship.

The celebration rally took place in the stadium and involved performances from the marching band, cheerleaders, Pride of the Tide dance team, color guard and JROTC.

Just like at the football games, the team’s members were cheered in and surrounded by the dance team and cheerleaders. Each player was individually recognized on the field before watching performances by the band, cheerleaders, Pride of the Tide dance team and color guard,

“We’re really excited about winning the state championship, and we wanted to let our coaching staff and players know that we appreciate their hard work, dedication and commitment during the season and off season,” said Superintendent Dean Shaw.

Head Coach Dodd Lee said the coaches and team appreciate the support of the administration, staff, band, cheerleaders, dance team, color guard and JROTC.

“The people who put this together put a lot of work into it and we appreciate it,” Lee said.

Picayune Memorial High School Principal Kent Kirkland said it was important to have the celebration rally to recognize the team for its accomplishments.

“I know the city has something scheduled for Thursday night, but Picayune Memorial High School wanted to do something for them,” Kirkland said.

A celebration parade honoring the Class 5A State Champions hosted by the City of Picayune will be on Thursday at 6 p.m.