If you walked into the Knights of Columbus Hall in Lynn on Tuesday afternoon, you would’ve seen some familiar faces from the Lynn community to celebrate the 100th Annual Lynn High School Thanksgiving Football Captains Luncheon.
Put together by the Rotary Club of Lynn, and sponsored by Brotherhood, Riverworks, St. Jean’s, and Metro Credit Unions, members from all five Lynn programs (Classical, English, Tech, St. Mary’s, KIPP) gathered to pay tribute to captains.
For those who may have been sitting near a rival table, the rivalries only begin when the helmets are strapped on. On Tuesday, there were nothing but hugs and smiling faces.
“Even though we have this ferocious rivalry, we’re still one Lynn,” Event Chairperson Sean Reid said.
Reid noted how important the afternoon was considering it was not only the 100th captains luncheon, but also the first since the pandemic. Reid also addressed how meaningful the event can be for seniors who are about to embark on one more Thanksgiving Day game.
“This is such a special time in their life,” Reid said.
On top of the student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors, and former media members in attendance, other guests included Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson, Superintendent Deb Ruggiero, and Sen. Brendan Crighton who all delivered brief remarks.
“It’s an opportunity for our team leaders to come together and feast,” Ruggiero said.
Feast indeed. Lunch was then served for all 13 tables, including chicken, french fries, bread, salad, cake, and coffee.
Once everyone had some food in their stomachs, representatives from each of the five schools arrived at the podium to say a few words before highlighting their school’s captains.
English Coach Anthony LaFratta, Classical Coach Brian Vaughan, St. Mary’s Coach Sean Driscoll, KIPP Coach Jim Rabbitt, and Tech Athletic Director Adolf Graciale all spoke.
Rabbitt talked about how these games don’t happen everywhere, and for his group to enjoy it to the fullest.
“Savor every moment of that game. It will go by like that,” Rabbitt said.
Driscoll spoke about how his student-athletes are strong performers in competition, the classroom, and in life – also mentioning that Lynn is the perfect community for them.
“It’s [Lynn] a special place to be,” Driscoll said.
One captain, Brian Vaughan of Classical, was appreciative of the event and grateful to be a part of such a unifying afternoon.
“It feels like it’s a part of history to be a part of number 100. It’s great to see friends, family, and everyone,” Vaughan said.
Lots more history will be made between these five schools, starting this Wednesday and Thursday as each Lynn team looks to eat their Thanksgiving meals with another one in the win column.
