Foothills Elementary Students Celebrate Sportsmanship During Rivalry Week

RIVERTON — Students at Foothills Elementary School embraced the spirit of friendly competition during their annual rivalry week, culminating in a vibrant display of school pride on October 7, 2023. With the highly anticipated football game between the University of Utah and Brigham Young University (BYU) approaching, students were encouraged to wear their respective team colors — red for the Utes and blue for the Cougars.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as students donned jerseys and painted faces, passionately showcasing their allegiances. Sixth grader Tatum West expressed her enthusiasm for BYU, while her classmate, Elsie Houghton, shared intricate details about player statistics, demonstrating knowledge that could rival seasoned fans. “If Bear Bachmeier does well, BYU will probably win because their defense is set,” Houghton remarked, illustrating the depth of engagement among the young supporters.

Not to be outdone, a group of boys in red showed their loyalty as well. Sixth grader Damian Reyes succinctly stated, “Red. Because it’s better than blue,” embodying the playful rivalry that animated the day. Even in the kindergarten classes, students enthusiastically displayed their team spirit, forming hand gestures for their favorite teams while giggling and cheering.

For Principal Abe Yospe, a devoted Utah fan, and Assistant Principal Jayme Gandara, a passionate BYU supporter, the event represented more than just school spirit. Both administrators emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and camaraderie, despite differing loyalties. “We really believe that we can be different. We can have different opinions and still be friends,” said Gandara.

Yospe humorously acknowledged their friendly rivalry, saying, “Mrs. Gandara is one of my favorite people… but she loves BYU, which is painful to me.” Their laughter highlighted the underlying message: rivalry does not necessitate hostility.

As the community prepares for the football clash, the students at Foothills Elementary already demonstrated a significant lesson in unity and respect. In a time where red and blue often symbolize deeper divides, these young students reminded everyone that competition can coexist with friendship. Regardless of the game’s outcome, the spirit of the event has already scored a significant victory for school morale and community bonds.

Foothills Elementary has created an engaging environment where lessons in sportsmanship take center stage, fostering a culture of respect and support among its students. It is this spirit of friendly rivalry that resonates beyond the football field, serving as a reminder of the power of camaraderie amid competition.