Vanguard is changing the way we think of Senior Day

November 3rd was a big day for Vanguard football. It was senior night and a rivalry game against Forest High School. It was a typical game day until the coaching staff flipped it on its head.

The senior class reported to Booster Stadium at 8 a.m., where a fleet would convoy them to start a day of bonding. By 9 a.m., they were at Cracker Barrel, downing pancakes and bacon like a high football team can. On full bellies, they flooded Paddock Mall, not for new sports equipment but suits for all 24 members of Vanguard’s 2024 class.

“That’s it. It’s over,” Vanguard head football coach Edwin Farmer said. “Senior night is done. You can throw the pep rally at the school in there, but I wanted to do something different for the kids.”

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The change has been on Vanguard’s football staff’s mind for over a year. Farmer reached out to former Vanguard assistant coach Kalen Woodyard, owner of Blackwood The Label, for a surprise that could open doors for the seniors.

With Woodyard’s help, Farmer and staff received design tips to combine elements that represent the team. They decided on sleek blue suits, vibrant red ties, and a double-sided handkerchief with a ‘V’ tucked into the breast pocket.

When Farmer announced the details for the senior day, the kids bristled at the idea of wearing suits. The minute they saw the model of their suits, their expressions changed. Upon opening the jacket, they found a helmet with Vanguard’s insignia on the left and their jersey number was on the right.

“They were happy about what they were going to do today,” Farmer said with a…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/senior-night-done-vanguard-changing-090204327.html

Author : Ocala Star Banner

Publish date : 2023-11-14 09:02:04

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