Ella Kittler | Writer
March 7, 2025
Sophomore Jackson Ortiz has taken on a special project for his Eagle Scout rank: restoring the iconic “SC” letters above Thalassa Stadium. This project was a perfect blend of his passion for football and his commitment to the Boy Scouts. As a member of the Boy Scouts since second grade, Ortiz saw this renovation as an ideal way to earn his Eagle Scout rank. “My grandfather was an Eagle Scout as well, so I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” Ortiz states.
These letters have been a part of the stadium since the school’s founding in the 1960s. Over time, however, the letters began to deteriorate and crack, raising safety concerns. Athletic Director and SCHS alumni John Hamro views the letters as “a symbol of our school and community. It’s a sign for everyone, whether from the stands or the freeway, that we are ‘one town, one team.’” Making it highly important it stays looking its best. Before beginning the project, Ortiz presented his ideas to the Boy Scouts board, including a drawing and an estimated budget. Through fundraisers, a GoFundMe campaign, and a generous $2,500 donation from the football program, Ortiz raised $5,600 in funding.
With official approval and the necessary funds secured, Ortiz began the renovation over Presidents’ Day weekend. He removed the old letters, reframed new ones, added stone, and installed a lighting fixture to highlight the restored letters. Just two weeks later, the project was complete, culminating in a lighting ceremony. Attending the ceremony was 89-year-old Clyde Latcher, the original project manager who started the initiative 55 years ago. Ortiz said, “I was so honored that he was able to attend. It really meant a lot to me that he was able to see it.” Ortiz also invited the school board and others who helped make the project possible.
Ortiz is deeply grateful for the opportunity to improve his school and the community. He said, “This project made me a better leader, and I’m so glad I was able to do it.” Thanks to his hard work and dedication, future generations will admire this renovation while watching competitive sports for years to come. Go Tritons!
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