Ray Solari Honored at SPHS Homecoming 2023

PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | The Ray Solari Stadium at South Pasadena High School
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | The Ray Solari Stadium at South Pasadena High School

With many former players and alumni in attendance, South Pasadena High School held its traditional homecoming game with a lot of fanfare. Prior to the game’s kickoff, legendary coach Ray Solari (for whom the stadium is named) was recognized by the school with a tribute. Solari, who passed away earlier this year, was represented by his widow and family members as well as several former players he coached over the years when the school was a major CIF power and won a variety of championships under his guidance. He was also a successful baseball coach and athletic director. After leaving the school he had a notable college coaching career.

PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | SPHS football alumni join the family of Ray Solari in honoring him at SPHS Homecoming 2023: (partial list) Front row (L-R) includes Tom Davidson ‘69, Alan Vlacich ‘67, John Stellar ‘67, Pete Warner ‘63, Aiden Moran, John Cogan ‘65, Bob Howe ‘65, Joe Karlowitsch ’74 (standing), Thom MacFarlane ’75 (standing)Back row (L-R): Mike Thurman ’75, Jack Schultz ’67, Paul DeJoseph ‘69, Connie Solari ’65, Antonia Solari Moran, Christopher Solari, Harrison Moran, Arthur Moran, John Genova ‘63, Terry Kiser ‘65.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | SPHS football alumni join the family of Ray Solari in honoring him at SPHS Homecoming 2023: (partial list) Front row (L-R) includes Tom Davidson ‘69, Alan Vlacich ‘67, John Stellar ‘67, Pete Warner ‘63, Aiden Moran, John Cogan ‘65, Bob Howe ‘65, Joe Karlowitsch ’74 (standing), Thom MacFarlane ’75 (standing)
Back row (L-R): Mike Thurman ’75, Jack Schultz ’67, Paul DeJoseph ‘69, Connie Solari ’65, Antonia Solari Moran, Christopher Solari, Harrison Moran, Arthur Moran, John Genova ‘63, Terry Kiser ‘65.

As part of the pre-game ceremonies, graduating SPHS football seniors were introduced accompanied by parents or family members.

PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | SPHS Football Senior players 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | SPHS Football Senior players 2023.

Former alumni cheerleaders rallied the fans during the game wearing their old uniforms as they joined the current SPHS cheerleaders on the field.

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PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | The family of legendary coach, Ray Solari, at Ray Solari Stadium at South Pasadena High School.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | The family of legendary coach, Ray Solari, at Ray Solari Stadium at South Pasadena High School.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.
PHOTO: Henk Friezer | The South Pasadenan | Alumni join current SPHS cheerleaders on the field for Homecoming 2023.