1999 Columbine Football

The national spotlight hit Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, in one of the country’s darkest days. The deaths of 12 students, including a football team member, and one teacher weighed heavily on a nation that mourned its loss of innocence along with the lives taken that day. Its impact on the world, nation, state and community was immense and devastating.

That spotlight never dimmed as the school prepped for the beginning of its football season. The team dedicated its season to Matt Kechter who died that day. Media scrutiny was overwhelming and the pressure on the team incredibly intense.

And, while the team dedicated its season to a fallen teammate, the state and nation focused on its own healing by following the progress of a team that seemed destined for success. Their only loss came to Pomona, but even that created an impetus for them.

Each week, the Rebels’ score was seen not only locally but on national media outlets, as well. It seemed the entire nation was finding its own healing as those who experienced that day did their healing publicly.

What the team carried in their hearts fueled a season that saw them win 13 games, including the state championship contest over Cherry Creek 21-14.

The players said they won a game for each person who died April 20. But for a country in shock, they provided the spark of inspiration that said, “we can recover from something so horrible.”

The team won its first state title and head coach Andy Lowry was named Colorado’s coach of the year. Three players made the All-Colorado team that year, more than any other school.

And, the spotlight has not dimmed.