For the month of February, we are featuring the Boosters, a local group that primarily provides support for the QACHS football team. Members of the community and parents pull together to help raise funds, provide financial support, coordinate activities and advocate for the team, outside of what the school provides. We interviewed Sammie Adams-Mercer to learn more about the Boosters and how they support our local football team. 

How long have the Boosters been around?

We believe since the 70’s, but we don’t have any concrete year.

What has been your biggest success?

The biggest success we have had was with the improvements to the QACHS athletic campus. In the 90’s, the group raised funds to provide stadium lights so we could hold night games. In the 2000’s, we raised funds with the help of QA county commissioners to provide several items: a new press box; three new Bermuda grass; a full-size football practice field; a new hockey field; and, new outfields for baseball and softball. We helped to fund a new well system and sprinkler system, along with a new mower designed for the Bermuda grass and the athletic campus fencing around the school. We also secured funds through the QA county commissions to field a new freshman football team that kept students engaged with the football program.

How did you get involved?

I am new this year. My husband Chris Mooney attended QACHS and played in the 2000’s for Coach Donnie Graef. Chris is now the special team’s coordinator. Head Coach Brian Mooney is my brother-in-law, and my other brother-in-law Sean Mooney is the wide receiver coach.

What are some upcoming fundraisers or activities you have planned?

We are really at the beginning of our planning season, and our upcoming meetings will help us flesh out our fundraising goals and schedule. A few we already have on the books are the Sudlersville Peach Festival and QA county fair.

Which sports groups do you support?

We are the football boosters, so we support primarily the football team, although as you can see from our historic achievements other clubs do also benefit.

Why are booster organizations important?

Boosters are so important because through all we do we help elevate the students’ and community high school experience, outside what the school provides. We believe there is no better experience than Friday Night Lights, a packed house, a loud student section and just a great experience for those both on the field and off. We raise money for better uniforms, helmets and safety equipment; if the kids look good they feel good.

Any members who played high school sports locally?

Most of our members are moms of the boys who play on the team.

Aside from raising money, are there other ways you support our local sports teams?

We attend the games on Friday nights in Centreville and also support our sponsors.