You walk into Joe Garrett Court, the gym echoing with the faint creak of bleachers and the distant hum of the scoreboard lights. At first, you think it’s empty—until you notice the Golden Eagle mascot, standing off to the side near the painted logo at center court.

The usually fierce, spirited bird is slouched forward, its broad feathery shoulders trembling. A faint sound breaks the silence—soft, muffled sobs escaping from behind the beak. Its white football jersey, number 77, looks heavier than usual, like the weight of the world is pressing down on it.

Tears streak down the edges of its feathery face, dripping onto the polished floor. One paw wipes clumsily at its eyes, but the crying doesn’t stop. The sight is heartbreaking—this towering, larger-than-life school symbol, brought low in the very heart of Belpre’s pride.