Starting in mid-August, the Lancers spent hours learning plays, reviewing film, lifting, and growing as a team, creating a true brotherhood. As a sister of two athletes in the football program, I have witnessed first-hand the physical and emotional undertaking that is football. Week in and week out, the team walks out onto the field and showcases the work they put in at practices. It’s a truly vulnerable experience as it isn’t always the outcome they’re working towards. These Lancer athletes, along with working to exhaustion, still manage to show their character on and off the field, being one of the most respectful football teams I’ve seen even when faced with frustration with themselves and others. I see them lift each other up after mistakes and celebrate everyone’s wins.

 Every week these players show their trust for one another in blocking and making catches, every person has a role on the team. So as much as you can practice on your own, your success is as much in the hands of your teammates as it is your own, a sentiment displayed in many team sports. However, it is truly special to football the connection they have off the field. I have heard stories from pre-game dinners, Sunday afternoon practices, and summer strength and conditioning that show the brotherhood these athletes have amongst each other. 

While their season didn’t end how they’d hoped, they still managed to show gratitude towards their families and seniors whose last Lancer season was coming to a close. These athletes put their heart and soul into this season ending with a record of 3-7. I have so much respect for this football team and the amount of determination they have shown this season. Every year they make the first quarter more memorable. Thank you for creating an environment to connect as a student body and for the entire Brookfield Central community. And of course, thank you seniors.