In the world of spirited cheers, and enthusiastic rallies, Anita Bacon was a guiding force, and an irreplaceable mentor to countless young hearts at Hoover High School.
Sadly, after a five-year battle with uterine cancer, Bacon, Hoover’s Pep team coach since 2006, died on Monday. She was 67.
“Being on pep Team was never an easy feat, but having Ms. Anita as a head coach made everything worth it,” said Cianna del rosalio, Hoover’s Pep Flags coach. “She has raised and influenced hundreds of students during her time at Hoover.
“She lives through all of us and as coaches we will continue to pass down her legacy and make sure her passion and dedication for this team is never forgotten.”
Bacon devoted 20 years of her life to molding and guiding the pep team she loved so dearly. She brought an unparalleled passion and dedication.
“She was more than a coach, she was a mom and treated all of her students as one of her own and always put the needs of others before her own. A true warrior,” said Anita’s youngest daughter, Bridget.
Anita Bacon, a 1974 Hoover graduate, started as a parent volunteer for the Pep team when her oldest daughter Nikki joined the team in 2003 and took an official role when Bridget joined the team in 2006.
“Anytime we needed help or support she was always there for us, her dedication shined through her and I take a lot of pride in saying that I knew her,” said Hoover Pep team member Victoria Perez, a senior.
Hoover Pep team member Aileen Aguirre said Anita Bacon wanted the best for every single student on the team.
“Ms. Anita meant so much to everyone on the team,” said Aguirre. “She was the best support system and brought everyone together. She was the heart and soul of the pep team.”
Cassie Jaravata, the Hoover Cheer coach, was a member of the team before becoming a coach.
“It is truly an honor to now coach alongside her two daughters, Bridget and Nikki, and to continue her undeniable legacy of this program,” Jaravata said. “We love you, Ms. Anita, and thank you for changing the lives of so many for the better.”
