On Oct. 10, the Barons Varsity Football team picked up a win against the Mar Vista Mariners with a score of 55-8. The evening’s match also featured the fourteen seniors that currently take part of the football program at BVH. Senior and safety Alexander Yepis (18) explained how sentimental it was celebrating the last four years on the team.
“It felt amazing playing as a senior during senior night. Not only did I play for our team, but [I] played to carry on the legacy of those who have already graduated,” Yepis said. “We won our last senior night game and wanted to carry that out again this year.”
On this special night, the team showcased their seniors who have contributed to the team’s achievements. Senior and wide-receiver Uriel Paredes (45) reflected on his last four years and hopes that when he graduates, the team can continue to carry on the legacy that it has carried for years: perseverance and strength.
“I hope the team keeps working hard and having fun because for a lot of us, it is the last time we will play a sport,” Paredes said. “I feel like one of the old seniors and it reminds me of how fast time moves.”
While the game centered around the accomplishments of seniors, it also included highlights from those who were not seniors. Junior and tight-end Edward Armenta (41) scored his second touchdown as a varsity player, marking an accomplishment for his high school career. Armenta described how the team’s morale contributed to his success, especially from the seniors.
“It felt great. We were all getting in that mood, especially coming on the field playing for our seniors,” Armenta said. “It sucks that [the seniors] are going to leave soon, but they have done [a lot] to keep this program alive and it is our job to keep their legacy going. They [taught us] to understand how to play and how to have leadership.”
Nevertheless, Armenta was not the only non-senior who made feats during the game. Junior and quarterback Anthony Lorenz (7) drove the field and scored his first varsity touchdown, marking a major milestone in his career. Lorenz described how ecstatic he was when he made the play and acclaimed his senior teammates for his achievement.
“Making that play felt awesome. I just drove the field and powered through the endzone,” Lorenz said. “It was not just me in which I made this play for, [but] for my senior brothers who have helped me these past three years I have been on the team.”
As the game ended on the field for the Barons, it was a clear win for BVH. After the match, players ran to the cheerleaders as they chanted in celebration of their victory, signifying brotherhood and unity. Yepis contemplated how he used this time to bond with those he really loved, including his family.
“The most memorable moment was when I had my family and friends there celebrating me. My ASB friends made some posters and a lot of my family came to support me,” Yepis said. “I enjoyed cheering for my team and carrying the legacy of those who graduated before me. It just feels so rewarding.”
Inspiration, perseverance and grit pushed the football team that Friday night. With the crowds cheering endlessly for their players, the team knew that their fans–loved ones, friends and family members–were the ones they played for. Yepis concluded with advice for those who will come after him.
“Live each day like it is your last, because time moves so fast,” Yepis said. “Carry on that legacy from those you love, from those you live for and for those you die for. Dream it and live it.”
