A Tradition of Inclusion: Victress Bower’s 17th Annual Football Game Featuring Corona High School
NORCO, CA - On a sunny Friday morning in Norco, the field at Victress Bower School for Exceptional Students transformed into something magical—a place where the high-fives were endless, cheers echoed from the crowd, and every student felt like a champion.
The occasion? The 17th Annual Victress Bower Football Game, a cherished CNUSD tradition that has grown over nearly two decades into a day overflowing with joy, celebration, and connection.
What started as a simple idea from Coach Val (Valerie Rodholm)—to give students with additional support needs their own high school football experience—has blossomed into an event the entire community looks forward to. There are four quarters of play, a spirited halftime show, and even a Homecoming King and Queen crowned in front of an adoring crowd. This year’s royal honors went to the beaming Tyler Root and Namirah Jones, who were proudly crowned by their respective parents.
This year’s game was made possible thanks to the partnership with the Corona High School football program, whose players served as buddies to the Victress Bower athletes. Together, they passed footballs, ran touchdowns, and celebrated every play with high-fives, cheers, and genuine joy.
Adding to the energy and excitement of the day was Victress Bower Principal Russ Marsh, who served as the game’s master of ceremonies and play-by-play announcer. His lively commentary and quick wit added an extra layer of fun, keeping the crowd entertained and engaged from kickoff to final whistle.
The Corona High cheerleaders, FPK girls and boys dance teams, and the Corona High School Band filled the morning with music, dance, and school spirit. And, of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without the halftime tradition that everyone eagerly anticipates—the entire crowd hitting the “field” for a community-wide Cha Cha Slide. Watching students, staff, parents, and District dignitaries dancing together was a true reminder of what makes this event so special.
More than just a football game, this day is about seeing and celebrating each other fully. It’s about giving students with special needs the chance to take center stage, and giving their general education peers the opportunity to connect, empathize, and grow. The friendships formed, the laughter shared, and the memories made are what make this event one of the most beloved in the District.
Seventeen years later, Coach Val’s dream lives on—stronger than ever and filled with more heart than words can capture. As the final whistle blew and the field slowly cleared, there was a shared feeling among everyone there: this is what community looks like. This is what belonging feels like.
This year’s game was dedicated to the memory of Brianna Lee, a beloved Victress Bower student who passed away earlier this school year. Known for her heart-shaped sunglasses, her flawless manicures, love of makeup, and joyful spirit, Brianna brought light to everyone around her. She is deeply missed by her family and the entire Victress Bower school community, and her presence was felt in every smile, cheer, and dance move on the field.
Thank you to Victress Bower and Corona High School for a truly unforgettable day for all who participated.