FORT THOMAS, Ky. (WCPO) — After the untimely passing of Jared Lorenzen, Highlands High School paid tribute to the Kentucky football legend, with help from the UK marching band, by retiring his jersey before Friday night’s game against Connor.
Fans at Highlands High School felt the punch of bass drums and brass before the game, as the UK marching band brought the power to Fort Thomas.
Highlands High School Principal Matt Bertasso explained that the idea to bring the band had come about this spring
"We've been working on this for a number of months we reached out to the UK band back in April and started working on them possibly coming and then after Jared passed away we really felt we need to make this happen,” said Bertasso.
And what they made happen was a touching tribute to Jared Lorenzen, the Bluebird's starting quarterback in '97 and '98 and a Mr. Kentucky football. In his senior season he led Highlands to a perfect 15-0 season.
"We reached out to the family and asked them how they felt about it they were very supportive of doing this it's been great to work with them and put this all together. It's a fantastic night for high school football,” said Bertasso.
The night was made all the more special by the retirement of his jersey #22.
"We have his kids here and to see them go through that struggle that's hard but we're a community that embraces one another it's been great to drive through town and see the number of marquis with 22 up Jared was a legend here he was a legend at UK and if you're from Kentucky and love football you know who Jared Lorenzen is,” said Bertasso.
