Friday’s football game, known as the “pink” game, had a very special purpose – to raise awareness about those who have survived cancer. The game was dedicated to Christy Gutierrez, a breast cancer survivor who teaches ninth and twelfth grade English at SCHS. She received a standing ovation when she waved her hat to the crowd.

Following the emotional dedication, the SCHS Bruins were able to maintain the positive atmosphere by defeating the Fremont Firebirds 35-33.

The Bruins quarterback, junior Chris Brown, threw for 270 yards while the running backs rushed for 160 yards.

However, it was not just the quarterback who changed the game. Tight end and senior Pako Vehikite was also a standout, according to head coach Hank Roberts.

“When Pako took back that kickoff on the very first play of the game, it changed everything, from their defense, to the momentum of the game,” Roberts said.

While Pako made key plays that changed the game on the offensive end, starting cornerback and junior Albert Leal made key contributions on the defensive end.

“Albert has the ability to shut down any wide receiver that comes in his area. He did his job exceptionally,” Roberts said.

Along with Leal, the defensive line held it’s own against a running back that was really special, according to Coach Roberts.

The crowd roared as Chris Brown threw touchdown after touchdown, and the defense suffocated the Firebirds offense, allowing only two touchdowns. The first half ended 35-14 in favor of the Bruins

The momentum was on SCHS’s side to start the second half, but the Firebirds rallied back, making it a close game.

Near the end of the fourth quarter, in a desperate attempt to score the game-winning touchdown for the Firebirds, SCHS’s defense tipped the pass away, allowing the Bruins to win the tight game.