Dexter High School Tigers Secure $75K in National Contest

UPDATE: The Dexter Regional High School Tigers have just secured an impressive $75,000 after finishing third in T-Mobile’s Friday Night 5G Lights competition. Despite narrowly missing the $1 million grand prize, the Tigers’ strong showing, with over 500,000 votes, has significantly bolstered their efforts for crucial field renovations.

The community rallied behind the Tigers, pushing for a win that would provide lights for their football field, allowing for home games under the lights for the first time. While the Tigers didn’t clinch the top spot—won by Dierks High School in Arkansas with a staggering 2 million votes—the support showcased the strength and unity of the Dexter community.

We are incredibly thankful to T-Mobile for giving us the opportunity to put a spotlight on our amazing community,”

stated Dexter athletic director and assistant principal Adam Gudroe in a press release. “With the $75,000 we have been awarded through this competition, we are even closer to making our goal a reality.”

The Tigers had previously received $25,000 for being one of the 25 national finalists, bringing their total to $75,000—an incredible achievement that reflects the dedication of the Dexter community and its supporters across Maine.

T-Mobile will return to Dexter on November 14, 2023, to celebrate the Tigers’ achievement and recognize the community’s effort. “While the Tigers didn’t take home the $1 million grand prize, their creativity, community pride, and all-out hustle elevated this year’s competition to new heights,” T-Mobile noted.

Historically, the Tigers have faced challenges, including weather-related issues with their grass field. Despite having a robust football program, they have never hosted a Friday night game under the lights. This funding brings them closer than ever to transforming their athletic facilities and enhancing the experience for players and fans alike.

As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming celebration, the excitement in the Dexter community is palpable. Their journey in this competition has not only highlighted their need for improved facilities but has also strengthened community bonds, making it a significant chapter in the school’s history.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Dexter community continues its quest for a brighter future on the field.