A noticeable black patch with the letters “JM” was placed around the left sleeves of the Caliche boys uniforms this season. The patch was to honor the late Jim Manuello, who passed away Dec. 27 after losing his battle with melanoma.
Manuello was a mainstay for the team and Caliche High School. He was a teacher for 35 years and the athletic director for 12. This was the first state tournament Manuello has missed since 1965.
“He just means a heck of a lot to the Caliche community and the Caliche school,” Buffaloes coach Randy Kirkwood said. “He was my mentor. . . . I know he’s here watching us this weekend.”
Shortly after the funeral, Caliche players asked Kirkwood if he would let them don the patches. He said he couldn’t say “yes” fast enough.
Brandon Hopper, Special to The Denver Post
