Published Dec. 9, 2025

Divine Child High School, in partnership with the City of Dearborn, hosted a community Victory Parade and Awards Celebration on Monday, Dec. 8, to honor the outstanding achievement of the Divine Child varsity football team as the new 2025 Division 4 State Champions.

Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud and local officials joined students, families, and supporters in recognizing the Falcons during a public parade through the community, followed by a private awards ceremony for players and their families.

This historic win marks Divine Child’s first football state championship since 1985, secured with a 23–22 victory over Hudsonville Unity Christian. 

“Dearborn is incredibly proud of the Falcons and their historic victory because this championship reflects the heart and determination of the Divine Child community,” said Mayor Hammoud. “The students, families, and educators show what is possible when a city rallies behind its young people.”

The parade featured participants from across the city and the Divine Child community, including the school’s marching band, cheer team, pom pom team, individual champion athletes from other sports, campus ministry, student council, and the 2025 Division 4 State Champion football team.

Adding to the excitement were special appearances by the Detroit Pistons’ mascot Hooper, the Motor City Cruise’s mascot Nitro, and multiple members of The Parade Company’s iconic Big Head corps, all joining in on the parade fun.

“Our team came into this season with something to prove. That bond, that willingness to fight together, is what carried us all the way to the state championship,” said Chris Laney, head football coach of Divine Child High School and the 2025 Catholic High School League’s coach of the year. “We are grateful for the support from our community — students, parents, faculty, alumni, and fans from across Dearborn. I'll never forget seeing the packed stands of Divine Child fans during the national anthem at the championship game. The emotion and belief in these young men was palpable. Moments like that connect generations, and I am incredibly proud of them for bringing the state championship home!”

The parade and ceremony are available to watch on the City’s official YouTube page. Photos are also available in this gallery.

The event was made possible with support from Les Stanford Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, Area Towing & Recovery, Painted Impression Media, PromoZing, and Ford Motor Company.

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