Touchdowns are always a good thing for any football team, but a recent score on a Massachusetts' college gridiron had a little extra meaning.

>> Read more trending news

A local Nichols College fan, an 11-year-old girl named Alana Inslee, who suffers from acrodysotosis and hydrocephalus, was honored on her birthday with a special moment on her favorite team's field.

Acrodysostosis causes growth delays and small hands and feet with fingers and toes that are shorter than usual.

Meanwhile, hydrocephalus increases the size of ventricles deep within the brain, putting pressure on the brain and leading to a larger head than usual.

While the Nichols College football team battles various opponents throughout the season, Alana battles her disorders, and sticks around as a fan of the team.

In honor of her dedication, the team honored her by letting her score a touchdown at practice, and had everyone sign a jersey as a gift before taking pictures and videos with her.

The team tweeted out the special moment, saying, "We've had some great touchdowns scored this season on the field, but we think this is the best one!"

About the Author

Keep Reading

Georgia Tech and Georgia have not met with a national championship within reach for both teams since 1942, but it's within reach this year. And the rivals are on parallel paths to get there, finding ways to win when it's not always pretty. (Ben McKeown/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

Known as a dogged investigator, Ashleigh Merchant made a name for herself in Cobb County’s tight-knit legal community by taking big swings. (Natrice Miller/AJC)