Under the beaming lights that engulf the Norma and Lamar Hunt Family Stadium, Senior Captain Henry Estes leads the Lions onto the football field, preparing for the high tension competition under the Friday Night Lights.
With excitement buzzing and fans cheering, hundreds of people watch in support of the Lions. However, one person especially focuses on Henry. Willie Harrison ’36, Henry’s little buddy, asked his mom if he could stay up late and watch Henry finish his game, supporting and caring for Henry’s passions.
Like many other senior-buddy relationships, Estes and Harrison have created a bond over time that’s centered around creating a role model for the young Marksmen. However, after his football season in the fall, Estes decided to reciprocate his support by attending one of Harrison’s basketball games in the winter, not allowing it to degrade to a one-sided senior-buddy dynamic.
Since first attending Harrison’s game, Estes has come to numerous other winter basketball games and spring football games, a moment that brings Harrison excitement each time. Inspired by the impact his own senior buddy had on him, Estes recognizes the importance of taking advantage of the senior-buddy opportunity.
“I really wanted to support him with everything he does and make him feel special because I felt special when my senior buddy came to my games,” Estes said.
As a lineman, Estes realizes that his stature may seem intimidating for younger kids, resulting in him looking unapproachable. Taking this into consideration, he makes sure to be present and supportive while fostering his relationship with his buddy.
“My attendance helped him realize that someone older than him can humble himself enough to come to his games,” Estes said. “I also hope he realizes that I’m not this giant who doesn’t want to come to his games or is too cool for that.”
Through mutual care for each other’s passion for sports, both Estes and Harrison have created unique memories together, walking onto the field together for both Henry’s basketball and football Senior Nights.
Furthermore, Estes’s presence as a role model outside of the academic world has provided Harrison with essential lessons that come with playing sports. For example, Estes was there for Harrison during a tough loss, encouraging him to keep his head up and take the loss in stride, a unique lesson that best comes from a senior role model.