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RESERVE — No games were played Monday night, but the lights of the Riverside Academy softball field and the Mickey Roussel Football Stadium shined brightly as a beacon of hope for a community struck by COVID-19.

Students and parents lined up in cars to drive a lap around the track, honking their horns to make a statement as others parked six feet apart to enjoy the scene behind the softball facility. Posters on the left field fence of the softball facility put the spotlight on seniors who had their final seasons cut short.

The celebration was part of the “Be the Light” Campaign, a movement that has encouraged schools across the state and nation to bring light to dark times. The event honored the senior class of 2020, spring sports athletes, coaches and families, as well as the frontline workers who have poured their hearts into saving lives.

The lights turned on at 8 p.m. and brightened the fields for exactly 20 minutes. The ending time, 8:20 p.m., represented 20:20 in military time.

Riverside Academy coach Tamra Regalo said the “Be the Light” Campaign was a symbol of dedication to the school and community.

“They’ve been doing it around the country. Everybody picks their own day,” Regalo said. “I knew that it was something I wanted to do with the other coaches, baseball and track. We have one softball senior, four track and three baseball seniors. Their seasons got cut short, and we want to give them a little bit of light in this time.”

The solo softball senior is Alexus “Lexi” Johnson, a seasoned shortstop and second baseman.

“I’m very thankful that my coaches and teammates put that together for me since I didn’t get to have a senior night,” Johnson said.

While senior year ended abruptly, Johnson feels the love and support of community members who have gone the extra mile to make this uncertain time feel special. Instead of getting photos and booklets at senior night, Johnson was surprised with a heartfelt video from her teammates that brought her to tears.

Johnson is continuing her softball journey at Southeastern Louisiana University, and she recently selected the familiar jersey No. 4 to carry on the legacy she’s left at Riverside Academy. She won’t soon be forgotten by the Rebels.

“I’m about 99 percent sure that she holds records, not just for Riverside but for the state of Louisiana in homeruns,” Regalo said. “She missed half of her senior season, so it’s crazy that she’s able to do that. She’s been playing for us for six years. We’re very proud of Lexi.”

Regalo has been nesting at home, preparing for the arrival of her long-awaited baby boy due at the end of May. Even though it’s been a boring stretch of weeks without sports to occupy the time, Regalo understands that it’s better to be safe than sorry.

“I think the LHSAA did a good job of not rushing things and cancelling right off the get-go,” Regalo said. “They did a good job of waiting, and I think they made the right call.”