High School Sports:

Drawing by: Al Salgado

By Brian Reed-Baiotto, Sports Editor

With all the ugliness it seems we’re forced to endure on a daily basis, whether that be the local or national news, the toxicity of the current political discourse or a myriad of other sad or depressing stories online, something very special happened at Friday’s Glendora High School football game that at least temporarily restored one’s faith in humanity.

And I’m not talking about the Tartans’ 34-7 beatdown over visiting Roosevelt in their home opener.

Dustin O’Hara, a 2008 GHS grad, has battled a number of medical maladies since he was 15.

O’Hara had a kidney transplant in 2005 and was overwhelmed by the support he received from Glendora students, coaches and teachers alike during his long recovery.

He was born with a genetic syndrome, that among other things, causes problems with his eyesight, hearing, skin issues, diabetes and failed kidneys.

His mom, Robin, said, her son has been at ‘death’s doorstep seven times and fought his way back to health,’ on each occasion.

His two older brothers, JP and Ryan, were great athletes and both competed at the high school and collegiate level.

But Dustin wasn’t able to partake in athletics, because of the many issues he battles every day.

The next best thing, however, as his mom put it, “he wanted to be the best fan he could be. His devotion to Glendora High School sports has given him countless hours of pleasure, and the independence in the age of Uber allows him to travel to some games.”

One day, a 1987 GHS grad named Scott Nelsen called then-GHS athletic director Rod Tilton about giving O’Hara a Tartans’ letterman jacket for all the time he’s spent rooting on every sports program, both in person and online.

Tilton, who is now the assistant principal, ran with the idea.

That brings us to Friday night.

O’Hara had no clue what was going to happen, other than he was going to root on his Tartans at Citrus College against their visitors from Eastvale.

His parents knew about the presentation, but they played their part and didn’t allow their youngest son to know this would be a night he’d never forget.

Between the first and second quarter of the GHS-Roosevelt game, word was sent to O’Hara in the stands that he was wanted on the field.

He came down, and to his amazement, the public address announcer read the following (in part):

“During Dustin’s four years at GHS, he never played an inning, a quarter or a period. He never made a lay up, caught a pass, or turned a double play. He didn’t set a single record and he never put on a jersey or a uniform of any kind.

So, who is this Tartan that is being honored with a letterman jacket tonight?

Our very special guest and honoree is by far the greatest fan in the history of our school. If there’s a sport, he’s seen it. If there’s a record, he knows it. If there’s an important game, he’s there in the front row. And of course, he is supporting us on social media, giving his insights and opinions.

Our honoree is GHS Super Fan, Dustin O’Hara.”

After the entire message was read, anyone involved with GHS, which included teachers, administrators, athletes, coaches and parents stood up and watched this brave and tough young man put on a jacket he so deserves.

And O’Hara accepted the act of kindness with a giant smile that seemed to say, “this is the best night ever.”

Dustin, from GHS athletes past, present and future, thank you for your support and loyalty to a school you love.

And in a time where people love to bash and cyber bully those they disagree with or for whom one roots for, thank you for being a positive and inclusive member on social media.

You are more of a badass than any linebacker who ever put on a uniform, because you’ve waged and beaten life’s most intimidating challenges.

Keep being you, Dustin.