Brush High School students celebrated school spirit on March 14, 2024, at the 17th annual pep rally held at the **Eben Ezer Lutheran Care Center**. The event brought together students, residents, and staff, fostering a sense of community and connection. The high school band performed the school’s **Loyalty Song**, energizing the crowd as students cheered enthusiastically.
In a display of goodwill, members of the football team and band distributed roses to residents, made possible through a donation drive organized by **Fresh Foods** in Brush. This initiative not only brightened the day for the residents but also allowed students to engage with them on a personal level. Conversations revolved around school activities, past Brush traditions, and everyday life, allowing students to learn more about the residents’ backgrounds and experiences.
Community Connection and Tradition
**Shaire Chavez**, Community Outreach Manager at Eben Ezer, played a pivotal role in organizing the pep rally. She expressed the significance of the event for both the residents and students. “The event brings a sense of excitement,” Chavez stated. “Some of our neighbors were teachers, coaches, or parents of Brush students years ago. Seeing the next generation come through and take time to visit reminds them they’re still part of the story. It’s not just about the roses or the music; it’s about the time the students spend with our neighbors. They talk, they listen, and that means more than anything.”
The celebration continued on March 15, 2024, with a tailgate party hosted by residents prior to the football game. Complimentary food, including hot dogs, chips, and water, was provided by **Unidine** and the **Eben Ezer Auxiliary**. Chavez and her husband took charge of the cooking, ensuring the event was a success, while residents gathered to cheer on the Brush football team.
Support Beyond the Game
**Joe Rosenbrock**, the head coach of the Brush football team, highlighted the importance of the pep rally as a cherished tradition for the players. “We’ve been part of this for years, and it’s something the kids really look forward to,” Rosenbrock noted. He explained that such events serve to reinforce the players’ understanding of their community’s support.
“When they see their neighbors, alumni, and families coming out to support them, it reminds them that football is about more than just the game,” he said. “It’s about being part of something bigger.” This sentiment resonates strongly within the Brush community, fostering a spirit of unity that extends beyond the school’s athletic pursuits.
The annual pep rally not only strengthens the bond between the students and residents but also plays a crucial role in building a supportive community that continues to evolve with each passing year.
