Hazen Football Players Share Jerseys With Staff

Hazen High School football players, under the guidance of Coach Drew Oliver, recently started a new homecoming tradition to acknowledge Hazen staff members. During last week’s homecoming celebration, each of the 40 football players selected a Hazen teacher or support staff member who have made a positive impact on the player’s life and helped them to be a better student and citizen. The selected staff member was also given the players’ jersey to wear throughout the day before the big homecoming game. Staff were very touched by the gesture and have embraced the new tradition.

Some of the comments made by staff to Coach Oliver:

"I have been meaning to write you for some time, but I never seem remember to take the time (you know how that goes.) In any case, I wanted to compliment the work that you are doing as well. Every member of the football program I have in my classes have been model students and good stewards of Hazen! They work hard, they encourage others, and they are a joy to have in class every day. This is a direct reflection of the hard work and discipline you instill in these young men. Job well done! Below are the guys that I have in class."

"Wonderful. I like that you take the time to offer the life lessons and go full circle. It matters a great deal that all of us do so in our own spheres of influence."

"I can’t tell you how much this new tradition now means to me. I have poured my heart and soul into Tray Brown and never knew if my efforts “stuck”. He just gave me his letter and jersey. I will be proud to wear his jersey and support the Highlanders on Friday night. Suffice it to say that this single event has been one of the brightest spots in my 30-year career."