By: Gaurika Gupta
On Tuesday Jan. 28, the boys’ soccer team honored the memory of 8-year-old
Mary Alexandra during their game against Clements. Mary, a student at Oyster Creek
Elementary School, recently lost her life in a car accident. Mary’s loss was felt across
the campus as students showed up to the game to honor her memory.
The game was a tribute to Mary as students who knew her dedicated the game
to her. One of these students was Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALs) member –
senior Adrianna Corona.
“I first met Mary in September of 2024,” Corona said. “Mary was such a sweet
little girl. She has the prettiest smile and personality. At first she was really shy but as
time went on she became very affectionate and was always giggling.”
Tuesday’s game saw the student section enveloped in pink. Another tribute to
Mary – her favorite color.
“Seeing everyone wearing pink and bows and thinking about how much thought
went into the game was amazing,” Corona said. “I couldn’t be more thankful to everyone
who showed up. As well as PALS and the boys’ soccer team for planning this.”
Meanwhile the boys’ soccer team were balancing their own emotions during the
game, motivated by Mary’s memory as a push to make her proud.
“Everyone’s heart was heavy, and the game’s importance created drive and
purpose on the field,” right winger Aidan Sanchez said. “We knew that everything we did
was for a cause a lot bigger than ourselves or the team.”
Students who knew Mary recount her love for her favorite color and her affection
towards her PAL – Adrianna.
“I remember walking around Oyster Creek with my pal and seeing Adrianna and
Mary walking together, laughing and having fun,” goalkeeper Daniel Salib said. “We saw
pictures of them and in every picture, she was wearing a pink bow or a pink shirt.”
Mary’s memory is one that brought students together to honor the little girl that
left love in everyone’s hearts. Mary was loved immensely and wholeheartedly.
“The last time I saw her was right before winter break. We were playing board
games and talking about how she was excited for winter break but that she was sad
since we wouldn’t see each other till next year,” Corona said. “I never got to see her
again but I really cherish it since it was the last time I hugged her.”
Tribute to Mary Alexandra
