FAIRMONT — The catastrophic flash flooding that occurred on Sunday has led several local businesses, community members, and students of Marion County schools to work together to rally and offer support in various ways to help those affected by the devastation.
Through social media and the set-up of relief drives over the past couple of days, there has been a heavy presence and desire among individuals looking to aid in whatever areas possible in order to make the process easier for the victims of this tragedy now looking to build back what was lost.
Despite their busy offseason schedules and preparation for the upcoming regular seasons, the athletic departments at East Fairmont and Fairmont Senior high schools each chose to spend their respective practice times on Monday participating in community clean-up efforts across the county in an attempt to pause, reflect and give back to the community.
East Fairmont, girls’ basketball head coach James Beckman, coaching staff, and players moved their typical Monday practice outside to City Park, where they spent the afternoon moving debris and clearing storm damage around two households, a decision that Beckman believes was necessary in order to provide assistance for those in need.
“What do you do, when your community needs help after a devastating storm?” Beckman said. “You move your practice outdoors to give back and help those in need. I’m extremely proud of these young ladies and coaches for assisting our citizens of Marion County.”
While Beckman’s group was certainly crucial to the ongoing efforts to manage the wreckage that has affected numerous homes, roads, and even power lines, the Fairmont Senior High Athletic Department decided to get in on the community service as well.
With the football team currently in the middle of offseason training, first-year head coach Mark Sampson, players, and Booster Club members got to work moving branches and clearing debris in other areas across the county on Monday morning.
Polar Bears’ Athletic Director Jeremy Laird, who noted that the 2025 season slogan is in fact “We Work As Won,” commented on Sampson’s commitment to showing up for a community in need that always shows up on Friday nights, citing it as a proud moment for Fairmont Senior High.
“In true Polar Bear fashion, our student- athletes, coaches, and Booster members didn’t hesitate,” Laird said. “They immediately shifted from summer mode into action mode organizing, planning, and stepping up to help a community that has always rallied around them.”
Laird also pointed out the significance of Sampson’s leadership, stating that the young men that will suit up for him this fall are learning the importance of hard work and supporting others, not just on the field, but off the field in real-life scenarios.
“Under the leadership of our incredible coaching staff, our young men showed up early, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work clearing debris, moving branches, and helping neighbors in need during one of their most vulnerable moments,” Laird said. “They continue to work even now, doing whatever is needed to support our community in this time of hardship.”
“We are so proud and incredibly grateful. They gave up their own time over the summer to serve others, not because they had to, but because it was the right thing to do. The 2025 season slogan is ‘We Work As Won.’ That motto came to life. This was more than football. This was compassion, leadership, and Fairmont.”
In spite of the efforts put in by both athletic departments, other community members got to work and helped flood victims however they were able, while many Marion County citizens have taken to social media to praise both schools for their dedication and community service work.
One user on Facebook commented, “You guys always come through. Every year the caring and compassion, the strong work ethic, and your dedication shines. Past, present, and future, I’m sure Polar Bears always step up and impress!”
Another user gave a shout out to the East Fairmont girls’ basketball squad, stating, “What a great service to the community and a testament to the character of these young people, coaches, and AD. Definitely a bright spot.”
As relief efforts continue to pour in across not just Marion County but through the state as a whole, both schools appear to be focused on offering as much aid and service as possible over the coming days and weeks.
Those still seeking assistance can contact the FSHS Football Boosters page on Facebook, or the East Fairmont Athletics page.