On Friday, September 4, when LaSalle-Peru High School hosted Galesburg High School in a non-conference football matchup, the LPHS administration planned a special moment of silence to honor a pair of Galesburg students who lost their lives in an August car accident.

LPHS Principal Deb Nelson and Athletic Director Randy Gunia met with the student leaders who oversee the school’s student section, the Cavalier Crazies, early in the week to communicate the planned moment of silence, as well as to reiterate the importance of remaining reverent given its significance.

As word spread among the student body, ideas began to percolate on what more could be done. Ultimately, the LPHS color guard would put together a small memorial (right) for the two girls, who were both members of the Galesburg color guard, that included a pair of flags in Galesburg colors. Additionally, the LPHS band learned the Galesburg school fight song and serenaded its fans during the game.

“It was really neat to see the kids take the initiative and to be pumped up about showing respect,” said Nelson. “Our kids want to win, but they understand the human side of it. There are bigger things in life than winning a football game.”