By Michael Kinnerk ‘20

Mark Kelly, a current senior at Brother Rice, has been in the Crusader family for all of his life. He comes from a line of past Crusaders, including his father, brother, and uncle.

When it comes to school spirit, Mark knows that reasonably well. You can find him cheering at most football games, helping his fellow students and teachers, or sporting Brother Rice apparel in his everyday life.

Mark not only shows off his school spirit well, but he is also a star in the classroom and on the volleyball court.

“I plan to lead my team this year by getting them involved,” said Mark. “I used to go to the Brother Rice volleyball games when my brother was a spiking crusader, and that team taught me the value of team spirit.”

Mark is hopeful for this coming year: “I will lead my team by embracing the spiking Crusader Crazy spirit, and I hope that motivates us to win the championship.”

Mark is very hopeful that his senior year will be one for the books. Talking about the recently installed house system at Brother Rice, Mark said, “I am looking forward to the newfound sense of camaraderie and pride that the house system presents.”

For his post-high school plans, Mark said, “I plan to go to college, my first choice being Marquette University. I want to go to this school because of the amazing mechanical engineering/programming program they offer.”

Mark, reminiscing on his time at Rice thus far, said, “My favorite moments as a Crusader have been all of the unorthodox events that occurred throughout these past four years. My favorite was my freshman year, when I went to Soldier Field for a Rice vs. Marist game.” He continued, saying very proudly, “And we smoked them!”