Ellis Lopez (Reet) has been attending Gilpin School since Eagle’s Nest. His fondest memories include playing football every day with friends at recess and having a mini super bowl after every school year. “Those were the best days. Going on field trips was really fun along with having field days,” says Ellis.

Ellis has participated in track in the ninth grade, basketball in the ninth and twelfth grades, and football in the twelfth grade. He has loved making memories with friends, coaches, teachers, and teammates.

His favorite classes include math, outdoor education, and history. Coach Steve and Lisa Boulter were his favorite coaches. “They helped me a lot during the basketball season along with Coach Ball and Mr. Hanson.”

Ellis also shares, “In general, they are good teachers and are always there to support me. Mr. Hanson and Ms. Erica played the biggest role in my high school year because they were determined to help me succeed.”

Friends, coaches, parents, teammates, Mr. Hanson, and Ms. Erica motivated Ellis to continue attending school and enjoying it. Trey Lindberg is another student who Ellis would like to recognize for always motivating him. “He gave me the motivation to play basketball and do other things that I thought were hard to complete and basically made me a better person overall.”

The advice Ellis would like to give students attending Gilpin is, “Don’t give up when things get hard. And enjoy every moment because time flies fast.” Ellis is passionate about basketball, football, horse riding, gaming, and fishing.

Playing sports and hanging out with his friends are things Ellis is going to miss. He’ll also miss making memories with his favorite people and the conversations with his teachers.

After graduation, Ellis plans to continue his Pro gaming career with Pro Fortnite Organization TSM, where he has been working during his academic career. He has a tournament in Denmark. With the money he earns, he will decide what college to attend for a business degree.

Thank you, Ellis, and congratulations on your upcoming graduation!