Mission for Heroes Game Honors 9/11 at Mission Viejo High School

Next Friday at Mission Viejo High School, the Diablos will take the field against the Lincoln High School Hornets from San Diego. This is no ordinary football contest—it’s the 2026 Mission for Heroes game, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Mission for Heroes is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military personnel, veterans and first responders. It provides programs focused on physical, mental and emotional well-being, along with education, career development and public recognition.

Garrett Gray, who coaches the Diablos’ tight ends and special teams, helped organize the first Mission for Heroes game and is especially excited about this year’s event. “We’re turning it into more of a community-wide event,” he said. “We’ll have a concert and food trucks in the school parking lot before the game, and then on-field activities honoring this year’s Konrad Reuland Community Hero Award nominees, military veterans, first responders and Gold Star families.”

MVHS students will also have an opportunity to learn about the events of 9/11 throughout the school day. The school has organized several commemorative activities, including guest speakers and a “field of flags” display representing the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives. History teachers will guide students through the display, providing historical context and perspective.

Mission for Heroes invites the community to attend the game and take part in the day’s festivities. For those who can’t make it, donations are welcome.

More than a football game, the event promises to be a day of remembrance, gratitude and community—honoring those who served, those who serve today and the lives forever changed by September 11.