By David Fleet

Editor

Goodrich– A middle school student is in tune with a major country music star following a classroom assignment.

Luke Giza, 14, an eighth grade student, received an autographed Tim McGraw guitar after utlizing his writing skills in the Humble and Kind Poetry Contest.

Giza’s response in the contest was prompted by his teacher, Dawn Robb, who encouraged her students to write a 3-4 line stanza with the theme from McGraw’s new song “Humble and Kind.” The song was released on Jan. 20, 2016, from the album “Damn Country Music.” The song has won “Video of the Year” at the 2016 CMT Music Awards.

The nationwide contest awarded 10 guitars to the best lines. The guitar was delivered to the middle school.

“I like country music,” said Giza. “My folks played it for me when I was growing up. My inspiration for the lines came from a sermon from Pastor Jim at The River Church in Goodrich where I attend. I used the football as a metaphor for God.”

“I never really thought I’d win,” he added. “I don’t know how to play the guitar, either, but plan on learning over the summer. I like to write, so maybe that’s what I’ll do when I get older.”

Luke is the son of Scott and Sharie Giza of Grand Blanc.