San Tan Foothills came up a winner Friday night in more ways than one. Their biggest victory coming in a show of  compassion and respect for an injured opponent.

Valley Christian had to endure the anxiety of the health of linebacker Dillon Lackhan, who suffered a head injury in the third quarter of their 46-21 loss to San Tan Foothills. With a fallen teammate carted away by paramedics, Valley Christian wasn't concerned with the game's outcome and neither was San Tan Foothills and coach Rodger Schenks.

San Tan Foothills agreed to play the game from the point of Lackhan's injury to the finish with a running clock. That allowed Valley Christian players, coaches and its community to get to the hospital quickly and be there for Lackhan and his family. San Tan Foothills players even joined in prayer for Lackhan with Valley Christian players shortly after the injury occurred.

Valley Christian athletic director Marlin Broek gave the highest praise to San Tan Foothills, Schenks and their players for an exemplary show of sportsmanship. Lackhan underwent surgery late Friday night and according to doctors, the surgery went well. Lackhan will remain in intensive care for the next few days for observation.