This story was produced under The LA Local’s Youth Journalism Program. To learn more or to get involved, click here.
Every year, under the beaming lights of football stadiums, the Roosevelt Rough Riders and Garfield Bulldogs duke it out for glory at the East LA Classic. But it’s not just athletes who spend months preparing.
Dozens of students across drill, cheer, color guard and band practice day and night for the big game. Band members learn fight songs, student leadership organizes activities for spirit days, cheerleaders and drill team members rehearse choreographed arrangements.
These photos show the tenacity of the students as they prepare for the Eastside’s iconic rivalry.
