PORT NECHES, Texas — Port Neches-Groves students, fans and the community celebrated the school's state championship victory with a parade and pep rally Monday evening.
A sea of purple moved down Merriman Street and into the high school's stadium for the high energy pep rally.
"The comradery, the spirit. There is no other spirit like what is here," said Vicki Nixson, a Port Neches resident.
The parade started at the public library on Merriman and ended in the stadium at the high school.
For the first time since 1975, the Texas State football championship came back to Port Neches-Groves High School. This is the school's fourth state championship win.
The Indians faced off in a rematch of last year's state championship game when they took on the South Oak Cliff Golden Bears. Last year PNG came up short, losing 34-24.
This year they found redemption in Saturday's 20-17 win at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
"Amazing energy at that game. And if you weren't there, then you missed out!" said Nixson.
Nixson arrived two hours early to be part of the tidal wave of purple on Merriman.
"I am super proud to be a PNG Indian," Nixson said. "My kids go to school here. I have two that have graduated from here. Played football we've done it all. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else."
Johnny Colunga has been a devoted PNG fan for five years2. He's overjoyed that he got to witness the Indians pull off such a huge win.
"Each game. Every game. If it's out of town, in town, we go. Wherever it's at," Colunga said.
For Colunga, it's an honor to be a part of such an energetic and supportive fanbase.
"Just seeing the people get together. You got that tomahawk. That spirit. Just going at it," he said. "I just love the support that Port Neches-Groves gives the team...the boys did a great job. I tell you, they played hard."
Hundreds more fans like Colunga showed up to show their support.
"I wasn't so sure that there was this many people in both towns put together this is amazing," said PNG High School Principal Dr. Scott Ryan.
This night was all about enjoying the celebration with the students and fans.
"We have a great program. We have awesome kids. They just keep coming through here. We know that next season is going to be great. But let's just celebrate this one and have a good time with it," Dr. Ryan said.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.