Nearly three months after the tragedy at Robb Elementary School, the Uvalde CISD girls volleyball team returned to the court and were met with unwavering support from their competitors.
The match against Lytle was held Tuesday in the Harvey Kinchlow Gym.
However, instead of cheers and chants erupting from the crowds, all were united for a moment of silence before Lytle players handed out 21 roses to Uvalde players and coaches, in memory of the 21 lives lost in the school shooting.
“Our prayers continue for the entire Uvalde community as they begin a new school year,” Lytle ISD said in a statement on Twitter.
A gunman went on a rampage inside of Robb Elementary on May 24, claiming the lives of 19 students and two teachers and sending shockwaves through the Uvalde community.
Now, with the new school year for UCISD just under a month away, students and their families are preparing, but not without remembering those who won’t be returning to the classroom or the court.
Tonight our Lady Pirates presented 21 roses to Uvalde players and coaches in memory of the victims of the Robb Elementary tragedy. Our prayers continue for the entire Uvalde community as they begin a new school year. pic.twitter.com/of6ghIcoeE
— Lytle ISD (@lytleisd) August 10, 2022
On Wednesday, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that the UCISD school year will begin on Sept. 6 with more than 30 Department of Public Safety officers patrolling all of the school campuses.
The presence of the additional officers was requested by UCISD Superintendent Dr. Hal Harrell.
Abbott’s office said the additional patrols will help parents, students and staff feel safer after what transpired at Robb Elementary.
Students also have the option of virtual learning this year. You can read more about where the DPS officers will be placed here.