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214@100: Knights Unite for The Underground

In 2009, at the boys' basketball MSL championship game, Prospect High School social science teachers Mike Sebestyen, Frank Mirandola, John Camardella, Brent Pearlman and Brad Rathe decided they wanted more students to attend sporting events.

They started with an organized pep rally, which gave birth to The Underground. According to Sebestyen, it was an example of the Prospect student body fully united toward a common interest. Since its inception, The Underground has had a significant presence at sporting events, raised money for charity and created a unique atmosphere within the school.

"Yes, we are an academic institution, but we are a life institution more," Sebestyen said. "The purpose of a public school is to build responsible citizens and life institutions, and The Underground has helped do that by allowing kids to see the whole picture of the school society."

The Illinois High School Association recognized The Underground this year, by awarding them 1st place in the inaugural Student Section Showdown.

• 214@100 is a celebration of District 214's centennial; 100 people, places, things and events that have shaped its unique history. To contribute ideas, email us at district 214@dailyherald.com.

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