By Landon Gilbert ‘26
It was a big Friday night for the Brother Rice football team as they faced off against the Notre Dame Dons. Before the game even started, something special happened on the field.
Brother Rice had their own honorary captain, Parker Baudo ‘28. Notre Dame also had an honorary captain named Will Regan ‘26, and both of them are part of their schools’ inclusive programs.
Parker is a sophomore at Brother Rice and part of the Mt. Sion Program, which guides students with different learning needs to be included in everything around school. He helps out with the football team as a manager and is loved by the players and coaches.
Coach Lockett said, “He brings what this team needs, great energy and overall commodity.”
Notre Dame’s Will Regan is part of the Burke Scholars Program, A program created at the school in Niles as a pathway to helping students with special learning needs be part of school life.
Before the game, both teams came together at midfield. Parker and Will walked out with the players for the coin toss. The crowd cheered loud when the announcer said their names. It was a moment that showed what football is really about: teamwork, friendship, and including everyone.
A fan from the stands, Jermaine Mack said, “I had never seen anything like this. The way you all can make someone feel so included is unreal.”
Even though the night was about football, Parker and Will stole the show. Everyone in the stands smiled seeing the bigger picture. The players were proud to have them as captains, and it was easy to see how much it meant to both boys.
This night was more than just a game. It showed how Brother Rice and Notre Dame care about giving every student a chance to shine. Parker and Will proved that being part of a team isn’t just about scoring touchdowns; it’s about being there for each other and spreading kindness.
