Delco’s football community shows support for local coach & family
The high school football community in Delaware County offered public displays of support for a local coach and his family during their time of mourning.
Condolences for Springfield coach Chris Britton and wife, Michelle, spread on social media this week after the sudden death of their youngest son, 5-yearold Colton.
“Colton was a bright light to those that knew him. A Thomas the Train enthusiast with a keen eye for creatively building and connecting structures from almost any material to create his own collection of homemade magical wands. We will cherish his giggles and smiles, and hold those memories tight in times of sorrow,” the boy’s obituary on the Pagano Funeral Home website read. His visitation was last Thursday.
The Garnet Valley football account posted on Twitter, “The hearts of our entire community go out to Coach Britton and his family.”
Ryan Smith, the head coach of Penncrest, added: “Penncrest HS, Springton Lake Middle School and all of Media are keeping the entire Britton family in our prayers and we are here to support.”
Several other Central League schools well as teams from the Del Val and Catholic Leagues shared thoughtful messages.
“We are right down the road if you need anything,” Interboro football tweeted.
Bonner & Prendergast posted following message of support: “Our condolences and prayers are with Coach Britton, his family, as well as @SpringfieldFB from
Friars football and the entire Bonner & Prendie community.”
On Twitter, Haverford High’s football account shared the hashtags #Delcostrong and #CentralLeaguestrong.
“You are in the thoughts and prayers of the Haverford Football Community.”
Chester, Chichester, Episcopal Academy, Marple Newtown and Ridley are among the many other football team sending well wishes and support to the Brittons.
“Thinking of Coach Britton, @SpringfieldFB and the rest of the Springfield community,” Chichester head coach Bob Brice posted on Twitter. “Sending our prayers and condolences.”
Britton is a beloved coach and teacher at Springfield. He has coached football and lacrosse at the school for nearly two decades.
Greg Gurenlian, a Springfield grad and former professional lacrosse player, is one of many athletes who played under Britton.
“My heart goes out to Chris Britton and his family,” Gurenlian posted on Twitter. “Chris ... is not just a Springfield lacrosse legend, but one of the best HS football coaches in the country. You’re in my mind and heart, Britt.”
Brian Allen was the starting quarterback in Britton’s first season as head coach in 2014.
“He ... was like a second father to me in a time of need,” Allen said. “Coach Brit, I pray for you and your family and ... no words can make up for your loss, but you are a hero in my eyes and father to me and all of the 2014 Cougars.”
Michelle Britton is an assistant principal at Springton Lake Middle School in
Upper Providence.
“Mrs. Britton was there for me every step of the way when my son struggled through middle school,” Amy Stabley-Alkins shared in a Facebook message. “She was even the one by my side when my son had to be rushed unconscious to the hospital. Every scary moment, every tear during those years she was there for. Now it’s time to be there for her and her family.”
Several members of the Delco community shared pictures of a lit candle, symbolizing light during times of darkness and grief.
Friends, family and acquaintances alike are pulling together to donate to the family in their time of need. A Meal Train campaign (mealtrain.com/ trains/q4own9) has raised nearly $50,000.
“Please help support Coach Britt and his family during this difficult time,” Springfield football tweeted. “He’s had our back all these years. Time to return the favor.”
“He’s had our back all these years. Time to return the favor.”
— Springfield football tweeted referring to Coach Chris Britton