For senior Simone Ball, number 77 is not just a pair of identical digits; it was the moment her number was called for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.
“Each girl was called one right after the other. After the first two names were announced, I didn’t realize it was me until they said ‘Arcadia High School,’ and then they said my name. I had become so conditioned to being called number 77,” said Ball. “I was definitely surprised to win; I think my reaction was very telling.”
Representing Arcadia High School, Ball is officially on the 2025 Rose Court, and will attend the Rose Parade on Jan 1, 2025.
“I feel so honored to represent Arcadia. It means a lot to me to be the face of not only our school but also our city,” Ball expressed.
The Rose Court for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses has a history dating back to 1890 as part of the New Year celebration. An important tradition, the Rose Court includes the Rose Queen and a group of young women who represent the Pasadena area during the annual Rose Parade and Rose Festival.
Every September, young women aged 17 to 25 interview for a position on the Rose Court. The selection process evaluates qualities like public speaking skills, academic achievement, and community involvement. This year, students from a total of 49 Pasadena-area schools competed for the Rose Court spots.
Prior to being named on the Rose Court, Ball was the only finalist from AHS. According to her, though the selection process was no small feat, it was also meaningful.
“The process was truly special to experience. There were multiple interview rounds, and the best way I could prepare was by reminding myself to be authentic—not just in my answers, but in being myself,” Ball said. “I think my most nerve-wracking moment was the interview process. There’s really no way to prepare for it. You walk in with the mindset that you just have to be your authentic self and answer on the spot whenever they ask you.”
Once chosen, Rose Court members engage in community activities, contribute positively, and connect with local leaders. As a result, Ball finds herself grateful for the opportunity to meet and appreciate the other girls throughout the process.
“Interview process [involves] some of the best and most inspirational people that I have met and continue to inspire me as well in so many ways,” said Ball. “They definitely saw something in me, but at the same time, I remained humble and genuine because of all the girls on the court and those I’ve met along the way.”
Ball joined six other members this year: Saniyah Brunston from John Muir High School, Lindsay Charles from Westridge School, Lara Georgian from Mayfield Senior School, Kate Kelly from La Cañada High School, Lisette Parker from Maranatha High School, and Natalia Pradhan from Flintridge Preparatory School.
Before joining the Rose Court, Ball was a student ambassador, which deepened her love for the community that the tournament fosters and what they strive for. Her first knowledge of the Rose Court, however, came when she was young .
“I looked forward to the parade when I was a little girl,” said Ball. “The floats would always make their way to the holding area down my street, and my family and I would camp out on our side street to watch them go by. “
“The environment of the tournament is very community-based, and it incorporates a rich heritage,” she added. “I knew from a young age that I wanted to try out for it, so when September came, I took my chance.”
As a high school senior now, Ball acknowledges that some of her experiences in high school have played a significant role in shaping her character. She particularly expressed her appreciation for her cheerleading squad, of which she is the captain.
“I definitely think the values and traits I’ve learned from cheer have been crucial. They’ve taught me not only to be a leader but also to believe in myself and to be daring and confident, even in situations where I might feel nervous,” Ball shared. “Cheer has encouraged me to be myself and to have faith in my abilities, allowing me to take chances regardless of the outcome.
As their captain, Ball sees herself as a leader and role model for her team. With many younger girls on her squad, she feels motivated by them and uses their admiration as inspiration to encourage them to pursue their passions.
“I use their inspiration, the way they look up to me, to encourage them to chase their dreams. It doesn’t have to necessarily be a ball sport; they can take a chance on anything,” she said. “I’ve had a few who said, ‘I want to move. I want to do this.’ And while I may not be in those positions, I represent the idea that you never know what could happen.”
Altogether, Ball is grateful for the support she receives from her family and friends, as well as from the entire Arcadia community.
“It’s definitely surreal to meet all the new people and build connections, along with the overwhelming support from my community,” Ball said. “ It’s a great feeling because I’m not just doing this for myself; I want to be a role model in the best way I can, with Apache pride.”
Photo courtesy of ROSE PARADE
