Sophomores surprise Landon Corpus on his birthday
It’s 7:30 in the morning. You’re tired. You’re worried about homework, quizzes, and whether or not you brought P.E. clothes. However, as you enter Catholic High, a familiar face greets you with a smile and a fist-bump: legendary sophomore Landon Corpus.
Corpus is arguably the kindest student on campus. The sophomore class, in appreciation of Corpus and all the positive vibes he brings, wanted to do something extra special for Corpus’ birthday. Led by sophomore Cannon Burks, a group of boys banded their resources together and surprised Landon with a custom Real Madrid jersey.
Corpus loves Real Madrid. He has been a fan of the Spanish La Liga powerhouse for years and will talk about it to anybody who listens. “I talk to him every morning and after school about upcoming games. Then, the next day, he’ll tell me the results and how the team performed,” said sophomore Charlie Cline.
Corpus’s love for Real Madrid is also contagious. His English teacher, Mr. Joshua Parkey, has become a fan. “Landon updates me on the team every day, and I’ve found myself checking out La Liga highlights on YouTube so that I can keep up,” said Mr. Parkey.
Corpus owns many jerseys from his favorite players, but the one he didn’t have was one with his name on it. Burks knew a jersey with Corpus on the back would be pricey, so he hopped around lunch tables to collect money. The money flowed in faster than he thought. “Not one person who knew Landon didn’t want to donate,” said Burks.
Once Burks had the cash, he searched for the perfect present. Burks landed on a white-and-black away jersey with CORPUS printed across the shoulders. “I wanted to find one he didn’t have and customize it to him,” said Burks. On February 3rd, the sophomores were ready to unveil their surprise. At the end of the second lunch, everyone crowded around the main entrance. A few guys brought Corpus over. Then the sophomores made space around Corpus as Burks revealed the gift. When he opened the box, the crowd exploded with excitement and sang, “Happy Birthday.” In typical Corpus fashion, he fist bumped up everyone in sight.
Corpus loves the gift. It’s now a good luck charm. “I have to wear it or we’ll lose,” said Corpus.
Mr. Parkey loves it, too. “That’s what the brotherhood and loving your neighbor is all about—looking out for each other, making a buddy feel special on his birthday. Seeing that made me proud to teach sophomores,” said Mr. Parkey.
The jersey was not cheap. But for Burks and the other sophomores, it was worth it. “What made me happiest was how joyful he was and how glad everyone was for him. I hope it inspires others to go out of their way to do kind things for their friends,” said Burks.
