On the front of the mask was the phrase, “Never Give Up” and a picture of Viena pushing a large rock up a hill, symbolizing perseverance. She never dreamed her design would be chosen as the winner, and she was thrilled to see her drawings come to life.
“Out of 500 kids, I didn’t think I’d win,” Viena said. “It was really fun to do.”
Viena’s mom, Devina, was excited for her daughter to be recognized in this way. “The drawing was something that was close to her heart,” Devina said. “I don’t think she expected to win, so I’m so proud of her.”
Viena joined the other six finalists – Maxwell Elementary classmate Nevaeh Colunga, Davis Magnet Elementary students Anneli Beck, Vennila, and Zeke Mitchell, as well as Westmont Elementary students Daomir Matute and Mindy Nuve – in a pregame on-ice ceremony prior to puck drop.
In conjunction with honoring the finalists of the “Behind the Mask” contest, Friday night was also Educator Appreciation Night, and each of the finalists’ teachers were in attendance to help celebrate their students’ accomplishments.
Viena’s teacher at Mattie Lou Maxwell Elementary, Adam Clease, enjoyed seeing his sixth graders take on the challenge of expressing themselves through art.
“Our kids are very artistic, and they love to create, so I thought it was an amazing project,” Clease said. “All of my students turned in really awesome work that was unique to them. And I’m just super proud of Viena because she works really hard as well. I think it’s great that the Ducks show so much support to the kids.”
From ice level, Viena watched as Dostal warmed up wearing the mask with her designs. For several of the students, including Viena, this was their first time at a Ducks game, and they couldn’t have asked for a better night as they were treated to a standout performance by Dostal who stopped 52 of 55 shots, including a penalty shot with just over two seconds remaining, in Anaheim’s 4-3 win over New Jersey.
