Middlesboro, KY — Middlesboro Middle School etched its name in history on Thursday evening when it crowned Miss Liliana "Lily" Serinity Partin as the 2023 football homecoming queen. Lily, who is a member of the MMS 7th and 8th-grade football team, made a bold statement by choosing to walk onto the field in her football uniform after being nominated to represent the 8th grade in the homecoming court. This courageous decision was emblematic of Lily's dedication to her sport.
Lily, the daughter of Timothy Partin and Ashley Powers, is not only a football player but also a versatile athlete involved in the MMS basketball, softball, and soccer teams. She is also an active member of the entrepreneurship club. Lily was escorted by eighth-grade running back and wide receiver, Cayden Burchett, the son of Josh Burchett and Allison Burchett.
A glowing tribute came from MMS Assistant Principal and Softball Coach Aaron Sowders, who said, "Lily is an exceptional student-athlete, a leader in our school, excelling both in the classroom and on the field. She is a valuable asset to the Middlesboro Independent School System, and it is a privilege to have her represent our school." Lily not only won the title of homecoming queen but also scored her very first touchdown in the third quarter, earning the title of player of the game. MMS Football Coach Kevin Wright praised her groundbreaking achievements, stating, "Lily broke the barrier for female athletes at MMS by becoming the first female athlete to play football at our school. Her inspiring journey has encouraged others to explore sports traditionally dominated by boys. Lily is as dedicated a player as any boy on the field. Her hard work is nothing short of impressive, especially considering her commitment to both girls' basketball and football. Lily embodies perseverance, determination, and a positive attitude on both the hardwood and the turf."
Lily was joined on the field by representatives from different grade levels, including fifth-grade representatives Bryleigh Ann Lefevers and Raegan Olivia Smith, sixth-grade representatives Paige Ann Marie Miracle and Kinley Jo Sabins, seventh-grade representatives Addison Adkins and Aubree Ray Middleton, and eighth-grade representatives Gracie Elizabeth Gambrel, Allie Marie Haun, and Emily Kay Brooke Lambert.