It’s been a busy week for Opelousas Catholic students as they celebrated their homecoming concluding with the homecoming game Friday night against North Central High School at Donald Gardner Stadium. Leading up to the game was the homecoming parade Thursday and a giant pep rally Friday afternoon in the school gymnasium.

One student who partook of some of the festivities was Michael Darbonne, who also holds a very important job on the sidelines during the game. 

We were following in each others footsteps as I was taking pictures and he had the very important job of taking care of the official game balls. Whenever the referee called for a new ball, Michael was there. Michael has been the ball boy for Opelousas Catholic for at least two years. This year, he is going solo as his friend and co-ball boy is now a member of the Vikings football team.

The first thing you notice about Michael is how well-mannered he is. "Sir, yes sir" and "no sir" seem to be the first words out of his mouth.

The-15-year old is a freshman this year and now that he is in high school, he said things are going OK. He is dedicated to the school, as is his whole family.

“It’s kind of a tradition,” he said. “My sister graduated from OC as well as my mom and many of my relatives.”

Religion plays a very important in Michael’s life. Michael, the son of Dale and Bonnie Darbonne, is an altar server at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington and has been for the last five years. Although he is only a freshman he is already looking towards the future.

“Right now, I am considering joining the priesthood,” he said.

The best of luck to you, Michael, and I am proud to call you my nephew.