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Most Legacy homecoming events to go on; 3 coaches remain hospitalized

Posted at 6:50 AM, Sep 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-12 22:35:39-04

BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Students and faculty at Legacy High School are preparing for a somber start to Homecoming Week after a fatal bus crash involving the school’s JV and varsity football teams.

The adult female bus driver was killed and 15 students were transported to the hospitalafter the crash Sunday afternoon at Denver International Airport. 

Most of the students were treated and released. Three coaches suffered serious injuries and remain hospitalized. The name of the driver has not been released.

The team was returning from a tournament in California when the bus driver, for an unknown reason, circled back to the terminal and struck a concrete bridge support.

Officials at the Broomfield school are calling this week “Legacy Pride Week” in wake of Sunday’s incident and are encouraging students to wear school-inspired apparel.

The powderpuff game was canceled, but Friday’s Homecoming game is scheduled to continue as planned, as will all other homecoming-related events.

A final decision on the homecoming game will be made by noon Tuesday, the district said after receiving input from players. Football practice will resume Tuesday at 3 p.m.

Three coaches -- Wayne Voorhees, Matt Kroupa and Kyle Rider -- were injured in the crash and remained hospitalized Monday. Defensive Coordinator Matt Craddock will step in as head coach for the game in Voorhees' absence.

Karen, the mother of a Legacy student who has a hearing disability, said the bus driver was always caring and kind to her son.

"She was a very sweet woman," said the mother, who didn't want her last name used. "It's a deep loss for Legacy."

People dropped off flowers and balloons at the school as a makeshift memorial continues to grow. Crisis support counselors will be available for students Monday.

The superintendent of the district, Chris Gdowski, issued a letter to staff and families Monday thanking the community for their thoughts and prayers.

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