On Friday, March 20th, the stands at the Brawley Union High School softball field filled with energy, pride, and Wildcat spirit as the community came together. BUHS proudly recognized World Down Syndrome Awareness Day during the first home softball game of the season, with fans showing their support in blue and gold to honor inclusion and Wildcat pride.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Brian Lopez, a proud BUHS graduate and current student at Imperial Valley College. Brian continues to demonstrate that ability—not disability—is what defines a person. His connection to this field is woven into his family’s history; his sister, mother, and cousins have all stood on this very field as BUHS athletes. On this night, Brian continued that legacy in his own meaningful way.
Brian was invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch, a moment that carried both pride and symbolism. Adding to the significance, his pitch was caught by his cousin Kianna, a junior infielder on the varsity team. The moment captured the heart of the evening: family, tradition, and the power of inclusion.
And to top it all off, the Wildcats capped the celebration with a victory—making the night one to remember both on and off the field.
