Story and photo by Justin Jarrett
The Warrior mascot usually brings excitement and comic relief to Whale Branch Early College High School events.
On Friday night, it brought a wave of emotions, and plenty of tears.
Carlos Morazan donned the costume at halftime of the Warriors’ home football game against Woodland and, surrounded by family and friends, made his way to midfield.
It was a tribute to his son, Kevin, who died Tuesday, Sept. 25, after a single-vehicle accident. Kevin Morazan was 17.
Kevin was a popular student at Whale Branch, where he was a member of the JROTC, played on the soccer team, and entertained peers and fans as the school mascot. He was driving north on Bruce K. Smalls Drive when his SUV ran off the road, struck a mailbox, and rolled several times. Kevin, who was not wearing his seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other students were in the vehicle; one suffered critical injuries and another was treated for minor injuries.
On Friday, the Warriors wore “KM” stickers on their helmets to honor Kevin, and many students wore homemade T-shirts emblazoned with “Long Live Kevin.” An moment of silence was observed prior to the game in his honor.
During an emotional halftime ceremony, a couple dozen friends and family members made their way to midfield, where Carlos, in full Warrior costume, mimed hugging gestures and blew kisses to the crowd. After a balloon release, the group made its way to the home sidelines, where Carlos comforted a weeping group of Whale Branch cheerleaders.
