SOMERSET, Ky. (WKYT) - Thursday was a day when many said thanks, for all kinds of things.

“Yesterday was a day of reflection for everyone here,” said Somerset High School Football Coach Robbie Lucas.

Lucas and his team spent part of the holiday on the practice field. It was the fourth Thanksgiving in a row his Briar Jumpers have practiced on Thanksgiving, preparing for a game that could send them to State. But this year is a bit more special.

“I’m thankful that me and Will are both alive the most. Thankful that our team is playing hard through all of this and everything,” said Gilmore.

Gilmore and Will Hinton were seriously hurt when the car they were in collided with a tractor trailer when leaving practice on October 4. Since that accident, the team hasn’t lost a game, and if they win Friday, they’ll earn a trip to the state title game.

“I’m not sure the game of football can prepare you for what we dealt with, but I can say I’m proud of the way our kids were,” said Somerset Coach Robbie Lucas.

Lucas says he gives all the credit to the kids on the team, and the community.

“I’m thankful for the two young men we still have with us. That we could have lost. Thankful for the way our community has pulled together. For the people that donated money and sent prayers and thoughts,” said Lucas.

Gilmore said Thanksgiving was very special to both him and Will.

“Just texting back and forth to each other, just telling each other, we are thankful for each other,” said Gilmore.

Gilmore and Hinton haven’t been able to suit up and play since the accident but they’ve been a strong part of every game, even if it’s just watching from the sidelines.

“I think just seeing them is motivation for our kids. Motivation for our coaching staff. We realize how quickly football disappears, whether it’s an accident or graduation,” said Coach Lucas.