Last week, Aliso Niguel High School’s football players celebrated one of the most meaningful traditions of the season: the Teacher Appreciation Jersey event. Each year, players choose a teacher who has made a lasting impact on their lives and present them with one of their game jerseys to wear on the Friday before kickoff.
The tradition is about more than football, it’s about gratitude. Players take time to reflect on the teachers who have encouraged them, challenged them and supported them both inside and outside the classroom.
By handing over a jersey, they’re saying thank you in a way that represents both school pride and personal appreciation. On game day, the halls were filled with teachers proudly wearing the jerseys of the player that chose them, creating a sense of unity that connected academics and athletics in a simple but powerful gesture.
Many teachers were touched by the recognition and the thought behind their students’ choices. English teacher Mrs. Anderson, who received a jersey from Senior Asher Youderian (12), said the moment was especially meaningful after knowing him for several years.
Mrs. Anderson says, “I have had Asher as a student since eighth grade, so we go back a while. I told him in his yearbook that I hope my sons have a lot of the same characteristics he does because I think he’s such a great person.”
Mrs. Anderson adds, “He’s a great student and worker, but his heart is what I admire the most.”
Science teacher Mr. Schneipp described Talan Cato (12) as someone who brightens the classroom with both his personality and intellect.
Mr. Schneipp says, “Super nice kid, very smart, and he’s got great taste in teachers.”
Math teacher Ms. Beckler, who received a jersey from Finley Torrico (12) said she appreciates the calm and dedication he brings to everything he does.
Ms. Beckler says, “He’s actually a really good student and a very calm being compared to some of the other football players. He’s always putting out his best work. That’s all you can ask for. Whatever you’re doing, do your best and be your best.”
For Mr. Biggs, being chosen by Carter Vestermark (12) was a proud moment that reflected the player’s leadership and positivity.
Mr Biggs says, “His leadership in class and on the field, he leads by example. He has a great smile and great energy and I’m going to miss that.”
Spanish teacher Señora Sepe was chosen by Evan Roseblade (12) and Carson Etnire (12). She said their thoughtfulness and integrity made the recognition even more special.
Ms. Sepe says, “They’re both amazing football players, but what I love about them the most is that they have so much integrity. It feels really good when you get something from a cool kid who’s not just good academically, but is a good person too.”
Ms. Sepe adds, “It’s nice when you can connect, and I hope they remember Spanish as being something cool and continue on in their studies.”
Events like this show that behind every athlete is a network of teachers helping them succeed, not only in sports, but in life. The Teacher Appreciation Jersey event gives students a chance to express gratitude. It also gives teachers a chance to see their impact beyond the classroom.
As the football season continues, the message behind the jerseys stays strong: success is a team effort built on encouragement, dedication and community.
