By Emeir White ’26
This is the second year of a matchup between Brother Rice alumni. This showcase included bonds that extended beyond high school and onto the college level.
On Saturday, Oct. 18, the University of St. Thomas defeated Valparaiso University 55-17 in a game that featured four former Crusaders: Marcus Brown ‘24, Donovan Brown ‘25 and Marty O’Keefe ‘24 of Valparaiso, against Owen Lyons ’23 of St. Thomas. This formed a game that symbolized more than just another matchup.
While the scoreboard represented a collegiate competition, the deeper view of this game was about brotherhood and pride from the shared roots of Brother Rice.
Lyons said, “It was a great feeling of pride I felt knowing that two of my teammates and friends are continuing to excel both on the field and off the field as well.”
Their dedication and performance on both sides of the ball continue to reflect the strong foundation built during their time as Crusaders. Each of these players had a significant impact throughout their Brother Rice careers and are continuing this throughout their college careers.
Donovan Brown said, “It was great sharing the field with my fellow Crusaders and getting after it on the field together.”
“It was awesome being able to play in the same game with some of my high school friends,” said Marty O’Keefe.
From leadership on the field to dedication in the classroom, they stayed committed to help with the culture that they left behind at Brother rice.
Marcus Brown said, “It was fun competing against one of my old Brother Rice guys and playing alongside another. It reminded me how far we’ve all come.”
While these former teammates soon turned into opponents, Brother Rice continues to keep alumni together through one unbreakable bond — Brotherhood.
