Spartan Stories

Damien High School senior Grant Hockin was indeed the first local player chosen in the Major League Baseball Free Agent draft, going in the second round to the Cleveland Indians. He was the only area player taken on the first day of the annual draft.

“Each year my friend who is a Claremont alum and I attend the Damien/Claremont game. This year's game was amazing, an exciting finish, and returned bragging rights to me following last year’s loss. As I was leaving the game I had my five year-old daughter with me. Since my friend and I always sit on the home team’s side for the game we were walking past the Damien bus when the gates swung open and a (rightly) exuberant Spartan team began tearing through the gates and jubilantly entering the bus. It was dark and no one could see my daughter, however one of the players did (I wish I had caught his number, however he clearly had played during the game). This player, without me asking, turned and yelled at his teammates to "STOP", so that no one "hurts the little girl.” His generosity in a time of exultation touched me and reminded me of why I am always proud to be a Spartan. Thanks Coach for continuing to instill values in the players at the school I love. “

"Part of Damien's mission is to help foster each students faith and help it grow. Once we have achieved a level of understanding of our faith and calling, it is up to us, as students, to go out into the world and inspire others to a stronger faith. Through our actions and the way we live our life, we can accomplish this task."

"Damien has a unique learning enviroment. Studying and hard work along with humor and fun create a foundation for students to succeed."

"Damien's academic program equips us with the tools we need for success and lets us function independently enough to determine our own future."

"Damien has allowed me not only to practice my faith but also to expand upon my awareness of it through religion classes and Christian Leadership."

I can't sleep. I did get some help from my son who woke up and sobbed for a bit. And through the baby monitor my wife and I observed as he slowly settled himself back to sleep. As I lay there in bed trying to get my eyes to shut I had the chance to reflect on what a wonderful day I had (had me thinking of "a Certain Word a Thought Remembered").

"Damien taught me what it meant to be a Spartan. A Spartan is someone who strives to improve himself and to grow as both a leader and learner. A Spartan has honor, respect, courage, and love for all people and things and sees no obstacle as impossible. Obstacles are, instead, a challenge to be gladly taken up."