Lely Alumni Take to the Field

The second annual Lely alumni game took place during halftime at the Orange and Black Scrimmage on Friday, May 10th.

The game welcomed players who had just recently graduated to those who had graduated many years before. It was a combination of all ages and skills, and even those who hadn’t played for Lely in years managed to hold their own. The turf was filled with smiles and laughter as old friends and teammates met up to play back on their home field again. 

“We’re a community-based football team and we really depend on the community,” said Lely Head Coach Ben Hammer. “We always want to bring everybody back, as many people as we can.”

The alumni game had fewer signups and a smaller turnout than last year, but it was still a success nonetheless. Hammer hopes to get numbers up next year and keep providing a place for players to come back home to.

Current and past students are very school spirited as Lely keeps connections with those who have gone through the school years before. People of all ages filled the stands to cheer on friends and family. The love and support from the fans who attended the Orange and Black Scrimmage and alumni game demonstrate the family aspect of the school and how the community is heavily involved.

Many alumni at the event had only positive statements about Lely and its football program. 

Jhony Faustin, a former cornerback for the Trojans, said, “The team’s looking good this year - there’s a lot of weapons.”

“Coaching’s still the same here,” said McKenzie Augustin, Lely graduate of 2008. “Play with your heart, give it everything you’ve got, play for the community.” 

High school football rules and regulations have changed greatly over the years, allowing for safer play while keeping everyone in good shape. CJ Noel, another Lely alumni playing in the halftime game, talked about how different the intensity levels were back when he was playing. “We would have practice three times in one day: two hours the first session, one hour midday for special teams, and then afternoon practices for two hours. If you get knocked down, you get right back up. It’s different.”

The alumni flag football game was an overall success and can be expected to have a greater turnout next year. It is an entertaining event for all and brings everyone together at Lely High School.