The Cleveland Browns’ fan base, known as the “Dawg Pound,” traditionally has lots to growl about –with their football team not winning a playoff in 50 years– but a recent move by Head Coach Mike Pettine really sent their tails wagging.
Pettine signed 9-year-old Dylan Sutcliffe to a one-day contract with the team and sent him on the practice field with the Browns for some huddles, plays, and a touchdown.
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The new tiny linebacker has a rare genetic disorder called ataxia-telangiectasia, which affects his ability to coordinate his movements. But now Dylan is the happiest he’s been in a long time.
When asked how he felt about becoming a “Brown,” Dylan, whose speech is often delayed, replied smoothly, “I think it’s awesome.”
There was loot waiting for him in a locker right next to the one for quarterback Joe Haden, including a hat and a team jersey featuring his own name–and the number 7, which no other player wears.
His favorite player is the biggest guy on the team, defensive lineman Phil Taylor, who weighs in at 335 pounds. On the field, Taylor lifted Dylan, who is in a wheelchair, up in the air while the team huddled around him and gave the Browns cheer (see the Vine video below and click for sound).
Dylan’s dream to meet his favorite team was made possible by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and included an official signing ceremony in front of the news media where he was flanked by Pettine and Browns General Manager Ray.