Photo by Juan Reyes Ramirez ’18 – Ross and Ryan Velez pose for a photo after practice. The brothers  look to bond both on and off the football field this year.

By Chris Agnone ’18
THE ROUNDUP

Athletes often talk about brotherhood when it comes to relationships with teammates. For two varsity football players this bond is more than just a metaphor.

As the football season kicks off, the Velez brothers, Ryan ’16 and Ross ’18  suit up each week as teammates and siblings.

Ross and Ryan said they have been training all summer to improve their skills as they strive for a state title.

“These are both tremendous, smart young athletes,” said head football coach Mr. Scooter Molander.

“Since freshman year, I have always wanted to play with my little brother on varsity, me as a senior and him as a sophomore,” Ryan said.

This year his wish was granted. Ross and Ryan are finally playing together.

“Our goal this year, as a team, is to win state, that comes first, but my personal goal is just to get back out there and play again”, Ross said, who is currently out with an injury form week one.

Just like all athletes, they had to start somewhere.

Ryan, starting running back, began his football career as a lineman when he was seven years old. He quickly began to accelerate into the running back position where he has been since sophomore year.

Ross followed soon after Ryan, also as a lineman.

He is now on special teams for Brophy, and was projected as the team’s starting safety before he injured his foot in the first game against Corona Ross explained.

“Ross has been doing a great job staying involved with the program even though he got pretty banged up,” said Mr. Scooter Molander.

“I look forward to hopefully playing against Ross in college and maybe even beyond”, said Ryan said when asked about his future and football.

“We are a legacy,” they both said.

“These two boys are both tremendous athletes. It is always unique when you have a senior and a sophomore, brothers together on varsity,” Mr. Molander said.