Los Fresnos Shows Spirit on “El Paso Strong” Night

by Ronnie Zamora/LFCISD

Rarely does an athletic event bring out tears for fans and participants on the same night.

That’s what happened before and after the Los Fresnos-El Paso Montwood game Aug. 30 at Leo Aguilar Memorial Stadium.

On Aug. 3 in El Paso, tragedy struck with the deaths of 22 people. Los Fresnos High School students, staff and Falcon fans sent a heartfelt tribute of “We Stand With You El Paso.”

Before the game, “El Paso Strong” cards were shared by the LFHS Student Council with 14 students, staff, coaches and parents from Montwood High School during the traditional Friendship Line presentation. The 14 El Pasoans then walked and faced the home fans, drawing a standing ovation that brought emotions to many.

After the game, players on the two teams exchanged a prayer together, some holding hands with opposing players they were on the field just minutes before.

Together kneeling on the stadium, they watched a special video by El Pasoan Devin Huerta entitled “We Are El Paso Strong.” Most of the Montwood student-athletes watched the video that showed images of El Paso for the first time. Several had tears streaming down their faces by the video’s end.

It was Los Fresnos’ way to help promote healing to the El Paso Community. It was a night appreciated by the Montwood family and Falcon fans that they will never forget.