One of Straughn High School’s own was honored at halftime of the Cottage Hill game last Friday evening.

Keith Shiver, a SHS football alumnus, is currently in a Dothan hospital undergoing treatment for Lou Gehrig’s disease. Friday, the game was declared as “Keith Shiver Night,” and at halftime, family members and friends received Shiver’s No. 30 jersey and a plaque of appreciation.

Keith’s brother, Kenny; Keith’s son, Luke; and former SHS players Chantz Robertson and Manish Patel accepted the jersey on Keith’s behalf. Frankie McVay, Keith’s former termite football coach, announced the presentation over the stadium’s public address system.

McVay said the announcement was being broadcast over radio, so Keith could listen to it from his hospital room in Dothan.

“Keith never gave up on the football field, and I know he’s not going to give up now,” McVay said. “He might not have been the biggest guy on the field, but he definitely had the biggest heart.”

The plaque on the box holding Shiver’s jersey read: “Straughn Quarterback Club is proud to proclaim September 11, 2009 Keith Shiver Night, in recognition of your outstanding athletic contributions, loyalty and dedication to Straughn Football.”

Following the jersey presentation, Straughn’s fans gave a standing ovation.

Also, during the game, SHS parents sold barbecue plates and drinks, with the proceeds going to Shiver’s family.