DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard
After a hiatus of more than a decade, the roar of football will echo once again through the halls of Uxbridge Secondary School (USS) thanks to the passionate efforts of alumni and community members rallying behind the "Restore the Roar" campaign.
USS made the difficult decision to cancel its football program in 2012 due to financial constraints. However, a group of dedicated alumni led by Michael Kerford, alongside Andy Luukkonen, owner of Body Fit Health Club and fellow USS graduate, have spearheaded the initiative to revive the beloved sport in their alma mater.
"Remembering the camaraderie and spirit of our high school football days, we were determined to bring back this vital part of USS's identity," says Kerford, reflecting on the inspiration behind Restore the Roar.
The campaign, in collaboration with USS administration, has meticulously crafted a sustainable budget to ensure the longevity and success of the Tigers football program. Funds raised through community donations will be securely held to procure equipment and cover operational expenses for years to come.
One of the campaign's highlights is the appointment of Jeff Keeping, a CFL Grey Cup Champion and USS Tigers alumni, as the head coach. "Jeff's championship experience and unwavering passion for the game will undoubtedly inspire our young athletes to strive for excellence," expresses Luukkonen.
Excitement brews as Restore the Roar announces its strategic plan to reintroduce football at USS, commencing with the launch of a junior team comprising grades 9 and 10 in 2024, followed by the addition of a senior team encompassing grades 11 and 12 in 2026.
As the campaign gains momentum, Restore the Roar extends an invitation to the community to contribute to their cause through a GoFundMe campaign accessible at www.gofundme.com/f/RestoreTheRoarUSS. Every donation, no matter how small, plays a vital role in empowering the next generation of USS Tigers footballers.
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