"These kids will always remember this": Fans react to Dwayne Johnson's visit to Apalachee High School for the first game since shooting

Dwayne Johnson made a powerful impact on the Apalachee High School community when he visited their football team following a devastating school shooting on September 4, 2024. The tragic event claimed the lives of two students and two teachers, including assistant football coach Richard Aspinwall.

As the small town of Winder, Georgia, continued to process the grief, the Apalachee Wildcats returned to the field after three weeks, playing their first game since the shooting. The Wildcats, though, lost 48-21 to Clarke County, marking their 25th consecutive loss.

Johnson’s visit, which he shared through photos and videos on social media, brought moments of joy and encouragement to the grieving students. Fans praised Johnson’s efforts to uplift the team during such a difficult time.

"Truly amazing person you are ROCK!! I grew up watching you. Still do. You truly are a gift from God. These kids will always remember this and you were there as their anchor. Best of luck my man!! RESPECT!" a fan wrote.

"It's so great what you're doing ! That's why we love you," another wrote.

Here is how other fans expressed their reactions:

"Bless you, sir. Thanks for doing so much good," a fan stated.

"Together they rise. Stay Apalachee Strong," a fan remarked.

"Dwayne you are a hero," another remarked.

During his visit to the Apalachee High School, Dwayne Johnson connected with students through laughter, highlighting that healing often starts with joy. He shared a powerful message:

"It’s not the actual event itself that happened on September 4th that will define them for the rest of their lives - it’s how they respond to it that defines them for the rest of their lives."

The alleged shooter, 14-year-old Colt Gray, has been charged with four counts of felony murder and will be tried as an adult. His father, Colin Gray, faces multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter, for his role in the incident.

Apalachee High School football team rebuilds strength amid tragedy

After a tragic school shooting shook Apalachee High, the football team resumed practice last week, and the school reopened its doors on Monday. Head coach Mike Hancock, in his second year leading the team, expressed how crucial togetherness has been for the students.

“We've got students here that go through good days and bad days," Hancock told USA TODAY Sports. "But I know this, when our kids are together, whether it's practicing or hanging out, eating pizza and wings, they're healing much better."

Hancock noted the importance of unity for the entire student body, saying:

“And it's not just for football. I've seen it with our band, with our volleyball teams and softball teams. Teenagers, yes, they're resilient, but they also need to be together."

Earlier in September, the Atlanta Falcons hosted Apalachee’s team, with two players serving as honorary captains on Sunday.