The lights shone bright at Jim Gotta Stadium and Matson Field at 8:20 p.m. on Monday — part of a statewide campaign to honor Minnesota’s Senior Class of 2020, whose biggest moments have been overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Be the Light MN” started as a hashtag on Twitter and quickly spread statewide. Beginning on the first Monday in April, high schools across the state are lighting up their athletic fields (and some indoor sports facilities as well) to salute the Class of 2020.
The lighting at 8:20 p.m. (20:20 in military time) will continue for 20 minutes each Monday until students return to class or the end of the school year. It is coordinated by the Minnesota State High School League. The time may be adjusted as sunset moves later.
Here, MHS senior Lydia Welle ponders what’s been lost and the traditions that remain from the edge of Jim Gotta Stadium. Photo/Jen Welle.