By Stephen Devine ‘25
Whether it is robotics, model train, books, or guitar, Brother Rice offers a variety of after-school clubs in which students can participate. At these club meetings, students can build camaraderie and learn through social interaction. Not every student is involved in sports, so clubs are a way for students to become involved at Brother Rice in activities that they are interested in.
This year, twow clubs were brand neadded to Brother Rice: the Crusaders for Guadalupe Club and the Improv Club.
Started by Nathan Salazar, ‘26, and Señorita Álvarez, the Crusaders for Guadalupe Club serves as an experience to encourage respect and understanding through the rumination of the life of Saint Juan Diego and the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe. This club honors the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe and shares the influence that she had on others.
Señorita Álvarez said, “The Virgin of Guadalupe is a revered figure in Catholicism, symbolizing maternal care, humility, and devotion. The club can provide a space for boys to deepen their faith by emulating her virtues. The Virgin of Guadalupe holds deep cultural significance as a unifying figure. I believe a club dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe can create a strong sense of brotherhood among its members, fostering supportive friendships and mentorship opportunities.”
Her vision for this club is providing students to participate in engaging and spiritual activities while strengthening bonds with the community and classmates.
“Members will also participate in planning the December 12 celebrations, including prayer services, performances, and activities to promote the feast day. The club will also organize a pilgrimage to the local shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe. My students hold a special place in my heart. They are more than just a group or a responsibility—they are a source of inspiration and pride. I am looking forward to guiding them on their journeys, witnessing their growth, and nurturing their potential are privileges I cherish deeply. Being able to watch them take ownership of the club fills me with hope. I am very proud to initiate this club with its founding member, Nathan Salazar, ‘26,” said Señorita Álvarez.
On the other hand, students in the Improv Club will form relationships and be brought together through improv games and laughter. Since students are not relying on a script, they can build confidence and work on their communication skills through improvisation.
“Improv is special because it encourages students to think on their feet, collaborate closely, and cultivate a supportive environment. By founding an improv club here, I’d hoped to create a space where students can develop new skills, form lasting bonds, and find joy in the creative process,” said Ms. Young, the director of the Improv Club.
This club wants students to laugh by putting them in unpredictable situations. These situations involve fast thinking and adaptability. Students will learn how to work fast in these situations and build friendships.
Ms. Young said, “During meetings, we’ll do warm-up activities that help students let go of inhibitions, followed by short-form improv games that focus on teamwork and quick thinking. Improv naturally builds camaraderie, so I can’t wait to see friendships develop as members learn to trust and support each other during scenes.”
Brother Rice encourages students to be involved since it leads to a sense of community and belonging. Whether it is through athletics, academics, faith, or brotherhood, each student can find some activity in which he feels a sense of belonging. With the addition of new activities added to Brother Rice, who knows what more will come?
