Tradition: Just how important is it?
The subject of high school tradition was discussed here about this
time last season, and while folks talked readily about the strengths of
their high school football programs, only El Rancho and St. Paul seemed
really adamant about including tradition as a major part of the program.
This week, El Rancho first-year coach Rick Zepeda was asked if he was
aware of the strong feelings the Dons' faithful expresses about "Blue
Pride." His reaction was as much realistic as it was idealistic.
In no way was it to be interpreted as disrespectful or uncaring as he
smiled and acknowledged it, but then he spoke mostly of laying a
foundation of fundamentals and execution and motivation and
participation in building the program.
While he didn't say it specifically, it is important to remember that
tradition is important as a motivational tool, but commitment and
performance in the arena, including talent and coaching, are what
sustain tradition's legend.
As was Gene Parsons in his brief stint last season as head coach,
Zepeda sounds like he has the Dons headed in the right direction.
While not all schools are as vocal about their tradition as are some,
all schools have some kind of it by which they stand.
Which area schools are the most aggressive concerning their
"tradition?" From here, it looks like El Rancho, St. Paul, Schurr, Santa
Fe and La Mirada.
S>P
Who they hell are you? You are not represenative of a true Swordsmen. Show some class.
Yes, SP has a long and storied tradition but showing class and conducting yourself with dignity is all part of that tradition as well.
Some of the stuff I've seen posted recently is not indicative of the Swordsmen way.
We wouldn’t except them , not everyone can play at S.P !
Boy, Am I glad I'm not sending my boys to SP!
Everyone knows S.P family speak the truth , like it or not . Area schools cant talk about tradition .
Not cal / Whittier s.f / la serna / pioneer /no one . Do the research , Our tradition trumps concord de la salle Last two years no division 1 scholarships . SWORDSMEN have more alums to play in N.F.L currently
De la salle has more ,BUT after they started to admit blacks , Maurice Jones - Drew and on .
Roger
Faithful rants are ubiquitous at all level of sports, emotions / pride /and sense of tradition are a rudimentary part of any sports team with out them no program would continual to exist. With a one high school football program in the city, there’s always a propensity for the community and alumni to have a robust of emotions for their local team. My family and I have had the pleasure of meeting coach Zepeda and can see why the kids at every football level like him, as well as the parents. EL RANCHO’S faithful will continue to bolster coach’s approach on building ER Don’s program. The city is very excited for this football season , and know that the team on the opposite side of the football also wants to win. So let’s all collaborate on the contingency of a good season or more.