CLINTON, Tenn. (WATE) — Since 2019, Ella, a chocolate lab, has retrieved the kickoff tee for Anderson County football. Through that time she’s warmed the hearts of thousands and has been repaid in belly rubs. But after seven years the super senior has decided it’s time to graduate.

Set to retire after this season, with Friday's game against Alcoa most likely being her last, Ella is being honored alongside the rest of the Mavs’ seniors. For the last seven years, getting out the jersey fitted for four legs has meant game time.

“I read a quote one time that said 'everyone thinks that they have the best dog and none of them are wrong.' But you’d be hard pressed to beat this one,” said Lance Freeman, Ella’s owner.

It all kicked off on a Wednesday in the fall of 2019, with a request from Free

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