On September 8 this year, silence overtook not only the field, but also the majority of central Pennsylvania. Jersey Shore’s senior football player number 4, Max Engle, collapsed with ten seconds left in the game. He was quickly transported to a hospital. Immediately, the communities in Pennsylvania stepped up to show their support.
On Friday September 15, Bellefonte Area School District (BASD) was covered in orange not only at the football game, but also during the school day. For the two days prior, there were already a large number of students wearing orange to show their support. Junior Katelyn (Katie) Stubblefield was one of these students.
“I came in on Wednesday and was wondering why a bunch of students were wearing orange. Once I found out what had happened, I immediately wanted to join in,” Katie said.
Originally the theme for the football game was supposed to be neon. However, it was discussed and without question, the theme was quickly changed to orange for Max to show support for the Jersey Shore player and community.
“I was honestly really glad that they ended up changing the theme. I would much rather be seen wearing a color that represents something so important over some random flashy thing,” Junior Kaylin Hackenberry said.
Not only did BASD show their support by wearing orange to school, but many other students from different schools did as well. At the Bellefonte football game against Clearfield, their cheerleaders were wearing orange ribbons in their hair.
“It was nice to see so much support from multiple schools in the community. I thought it was a sweet gesture that all the cheerleaders were wearing orange,” freshman Shayna Martin said.
At the beginning of the Bellefonte football game it was announced that all proceeds from the 50/50 would be donated to the family.
It wasn’t only schools stepping up to help the family, but also just members of the community. The family started a GoFundMe asking for $30,000. The members of the community took this opportunity to help with strive and very quickly not only was the $30,000 goal reached, but an extra $8,000 was raised.
The community of Pennsylvania saw someone in need, and when it mattered, they stepped up. They showed a kindness and humanity that is often lost in this world. In times as rough as these, it is important to show others the kindness that you hope will someday be returned.
Editor’s Note: In a devastating loss to his and the surrounding communities, Max Engle passed away on September 16 this year. BAHS sends their regards to the family and friends of Max and will do your best to send our support in any way we can.
