Beyond the Score, Ep. 66: Central Oregon teams honor Silver Rail victims before rivalry games

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- Thursday’s soccer matchups between Summit and Bend High carried a deeper meaning than the battle for the top spot in league play.

Before the Summit Storm and Bend High Lava Bears boys soccer teams took the field, players and coaches observed a moment of silence to honor the victims and everyone affected by the Silver Rail school shooting. Many players also wore purple tape and armbands, representing Silver Rail’s school colors.

It was an emotional week for Central Oregon athletics, as practices and games were canceled in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The Summit and Bend High girls soccer teams also faced off for first place in league play, with both teams paying tribute before kickoff. Players wore Silver Rail shirts, brought flowers to a “Silver Rail Strong” sign and linked arms at midfield for a moment of unity.

The tributes extended beyond the rivalry games. Before their matchup, the Ridgeview Ravens and Mountain View Cougars linked arms at midfield and observed a moment of silence to honor those affected by the shooting.

Mountain View also honored Megan Lambert, a school graduate who was killed in the tragedy, with “ML” stickers on the players’ helmets.

Across Central Oregon, the soccer field became a place for more than competition. It was a place for teams to come together, remember those lost and support a community working through an unimaginable tragedy.