NILES, Mich. --  The Niles High School fall sports pep rally turned into a celebration of one of the school’s most beloved figures, Johnny Morrison.

Morrison, who has Down syndrome, has been a fixture in the Vikings athletic program since 1986, serving as a manager for the football, basketball, and baseball teams. Known for his boundless joy and kindness, he has been a source of inspiration for generations of students and athletes.

During the pep rally, the community held a ceremony in his honor, thanking him for his decades of support and dedication. In addition, the school announced the creation of the Johnny Morrison Scholarship, which will be awarded each year to the Niles student who best exemplifies Viking pride.

“Johnny has always loved the Vikings, and he’s always loved everybody,” a school official said during the event. “Today was our chance to say we love him back.”

The ceremony drew cheers, applause, and standing ovations from students, staff,f and community members, reflecting the impact Morrison has had over nearly four decades.