John F. Kennedy High School 2008 NVL Copper Division Champs: The 'ROCK'

In 2005, Coach Sarlo dedicated an award to honor the memory of his close friend Stephen Rockwell.  The Stephen Rockwell Memorial Award, known as the 'ROCK' is given to the player who serves as the 'ROCK' of the Kennedy Football program.  He may not be the best athlete, but he models the foundation of the program, which is TEAM, COMMITMENT and HARD WORK.  He is committed to working hard for the success of the team.  He attends practice every day and leads with his actions.  He makes that same commitment in the classroom as well.  Above all, he is the player who can still crack a smile and make others laugh, even after a tough loss, or a rigorous day of practice. He is passionate not only about football, but about life itself.

Stephen Rockwell had those same passions.  A former football player and 1982 graduate of Kennedy, Steve was killed in 1988 in a motorcycle accident.  He left us way too early, but during his time on this Earth he made everyone in his life smile.  One of his favorite songs was Bobby McFarren's 1988 hit, 'Don't worry, be happy'.  That is exactly how Steve lived his life. No matter what life threw at him, Steve never let anything or anyone bring him down.  He had a contagious smile and he made others laugh along with him.

This year's graduating class of 21 seniors presented a huge challenge for Coach Sarlo to recognize a student/athlete for this honor.  The student/athlete honored with the 2008 Stephen Rockwell Memorial Award is Senior Captain, Ronald Naraine.  

Ronald worked very hard to earn a Leadership Position for the 2008 season. Ronald started ALL 4 years that he played in the program rushing for over 3000 yards as a running back and delivering some of the most physical hits as a defensive back that players, coaches and fans have ever seen.  He achieved this while playing through extreme adversity.  Ronald rarely ever played an entire game due to the level of physical play that he demanded from his body.  Nevertheless, he always walked off the field with that 'contagious' smile on his face.  His career of toughness was displayed in the last Thanksgiving Day game against Crosby as he rushed for a big gain with multiple Crosby defenders on his back!

Ronald graduates this year and it will be tough to replace his football stats and skills, but even tougher to find a young man of his character, honor, respect and courage.  Congratulations to Ronald and his family.  We wish him well in the future.

The 'ROCK' honorees

2008-Ronald Naraine

2007-Steve Anton, Ken Fermin, James McColl
2006-Queshaun Harvin
2005-Nevin Thomas