Flannel, Fellowship, and Footsteps: A Fall Tradition Grows at Stella Maris Academy

School spirit filled the Sentinel Trail as Stella Maris Academy gathered for its third annual Fall Flannel Festival on Saturday, October 11. With races, food, and activities, the celebration brought families, staff, and supporters together while raising funds for the academy’s growing activities program.

The festivities began at 9 a.m. with the second annual Fr. Ben 5K, honoring the late Fr. Ben Hadrich. As the academy’s chaplain during its foundational first two years, Fr. Ben helped shape a young school community through his genuine interest in students, his presence at school events, and his enthusiasm for running. Holding a race in his memory connected something he loved with the community he served.

Runners and walkers of all ages took to the school’s continuous-loop trail, with approximately 200 racers and another 50 fun-run participants joining the day’s events. Erik and Claire earned first-place finishes in the men’s and women’s 5K races, respectively, while Peter and Isla claimed the top spots in the 2K.

Beginning at 11 a.m., approximately 300 people gathered for food and activities. Children ages five and under and staff families attended free of charge, helping make the celebration welcoming and accessible to the academy community.

Volunteer support and generous sponsorship helped make the festival possible. Special thanks go to the Stecker family, the Gannucci family, Jersey Mike’s, Essentia, Frandsen Bank, Park State Bank, Austin Jarrow, Screen Graphics, and Play It Again.

Now in its third year, the Fall Flannel Festival continues to grow as a gathering rooted in fellowship and support for student opportunities. The Fr. Ben 5K gives that tradition a meaningful connection to the academy’s beginnings, honoring a beloved chaplain while bringing the community together for its future.[