On Friday, September 5th, 2025, Sahuaro High School gathered once again to venerate the life and legacy of Rick Botkin at the 47th annual memorial football game – the longest-running memorial game in the history of high school football in the United States.
Rick was just 17 years old when he passed away in a car accident while celebrating a victory. He was a senior at Sahuaro, recognized as an amazing athlete and a great friend to many. Rick excelled as a quarterback and safety for the football team and also made his mark in track and field. His jersey number, 25, has become a lasting symbol of his impact on the school and community.
Rick’s younger brother, Steve Botkin, who is Sahuaro’s current athletic director, was only eight years old when Rick passed away. He shared that the tradition remains deeply meaningful to their family. “I appreciate our administration here and all the folks that have helped carry on the legacy. He’s sorely missed by us,” he said. He added that every year, people from across Tucson and even outside of Arizona reach out, asking when the game will take place so they can be there to honor him. “…history and tradition draw a lot of people here,” Mr. Botkin stated. 
The emotions are still strong for the Botkin family nearly five decades later. “Watching my mom and dad get emotional also makes me very emotional,” Mr. Botkin said. “He was like a hero to me.”
Rick’s nephew, Gage Lindsley, a Sahuaro JV football player, also spoke on the impact of his great-uncle’s legacy. “I’ve been told that he was a great leader not just on the field but as a friend and family member,” Gage said.
Principal Estrella talked about the deeper meaning of the event for the Cougar community. “This game represents how we rally around families, how we rally around each other, and how much we all support each other,” he said. “It’s simply beautiful.”
Each year, a player is chosen to wear Rick’s number 25 in his honor. This year, that responsibility was taken on by senior Trevor Eagerton. “Even though his senior year was cut short, he is still remembered as one of the greatest athletes to wear the Cougar red and blue,” the game’s announcer reminded the crowd. 
Before the game begins, Rick’s parents, Mr. Botkin, and many other family members head to the field for a heartwarming tribute and moment of silence for Rick. The ceremony ended with the players rallying together in unison- “1…2…3…BOTKIN!”- before charging onto the field. This year, Sahuaro’s opponent was Desert View High School.
Though Sahuaro lost to Desert View this year, the game was played with determination, heart, and cougar pride. For the players, students, staff, and community members who attended the memorial game, the night was about far more than football- it was about honoring a young man who was an important member of the Cougar family.
