On Thursday, February 12th, an impactful event was held at Lake Park West Campus–the Taste of Lake Park and Lancer Hero game. The Taste of Lake Park took place before the basketball game in the West Campus lobby, prefacing the spirited, heartwarming Lancer Hero basketball game, in which LP basketball players play on teams with students enrolled in our Lancer heroes P.E. class. This event not only raises money for autism-related charities, it also promotes “awareness, inclusion, and connection within our school community,” according to Liliana Alarcon, a P.E. Heroes student who assisted in preparation for the event.
In the eyes of Ms. Katie Hamann, Lake Park’s activities director, “The purpose of Taste of Lake Park and Lancer Hero is to connect our clubs with the community to support our Lancer Hero athletes.”
The Taste of Lake Park provided an opportunity for Lake Park clubs to fundraise for their interests by selling samples of food. The event brought a total of 10 clubs together, including Blue Crew, FCCLA, French Honor Society, Interact Club, Lancer Hero, Lancer Nation, Robotics, SASA, Student Council, and Youth Advocates for Change. Each club got to display their strengths, such as in the case of FCCLA, who baked their own cake pops to sell at the event. Athletes, attendees, and staff members enjoyed foods from various sponsor restaurants eager to support our Lake Park clubs, such as Pronto’s and Italian Pizza Kitchen.
The NEDSEC students are filled with excitement in the weeks leading up to the Lancer HERO game, during which they practiced with their partners in the P.E. heroes gym class.
“It wasn’t just about preparing for one event—it was about supporting and helping [my partner] feel ready and excited,” Liliana said.
At the basketball game itself, many groups came together to create a heartwarming community, cheering on and uplifting the participants.
“I think sometimes programs like NEDSEC can unintentionally get overlooked—not because people don’t care, but because some students simply don’t know much about it or haven’t had the opportunity to meet the students in the program,” Liliana said. “Events like this create that opportunity.”
The boys and girls basketball teams were present, with some players competing in the basketball tournament. The cheerleading teams provided entertainment, encouragement, and created an atmosphere of school spirit and community. The camaraderie and teamwork between the players, clubs, and community was tangible in the endless smiles on peoples’ faces. Competitive, yet warm and loving spirit made this event a chance to lift one another up and make new connections.
The Taste of Lake Park and Lancer Hero game are more than food samples and a fun basketball game. It’s a chance for students, staff, and community members alike to come together to celebrate the entire school community. According to Liliana, the impact of the event is undoubtable.
“Being part of this has been incredibly impactful for me, too. Seeing the level of support and love at these events honestly gives you hope and reminds you how strong our community can be when we come together.”
“This is one of the most heartwarming events of the year, with so many people coming together to support each other! Everyone should attend!” Ms. Hamann said.
