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Another Year, Another Homecoming

Homecoming is a traditional event that students, families, and administrators look forward to year-round. Our celebration this year included a much-anticipated football game against Fox Lane High School and a lively dance; it was a celebration that certainly did not disappoint. For members of the Freshman Class, these events helped to make John Jay home too.  

On Friday, September 30th, our varsity football team played a great game against Fox Lane High School, winning 41-14. It started by honoring the team’s senior players—who will graduate this June—with their families coming out onto the field to congratulate them on their high-school achievements. After this brief ceremony, all of our players swarmed onto the field, but not before bursting through a John Jay poster held by the cheerleaders. The energy never dwindled throughout the game: the countless fans in the stands were loud and energetic, and even the rain could not dampen their spirits. The stands were filled with people, who even began surrounding the fence to get closer to the field and its players. Needless to say, this year’s homecoming game was beyond enjoyable. And it was our John Jay spirit that lead us to an amazing win.

The next day (October 1st) was the homecoming dance. Everyone, from freshmen to seniors, was present, and anxiously waited in the candle-lit lobby for the dance to start. A few high rise tables sprinkled the room, the string lights hanging along the walls emitting a dim but festive glow on the variety of complementary foods: two fountains, chocolate and marshmallow; different fruits; and rice krispy treats. Soon, the procession moved into the cafeteria, where there were four balloon pillars, stringed balloons linked between them. Blue, white, and green lights illuminated the room and the feet on the floor, moving to classic dances like the cupid shuffle and the cotton-eyed Joe. The smiles and laughter were contagious. Finally, the homecoming king and queen were announced: Omar E. and Cayla R. This year’s dance was undeniably fun for all those who came out, and it helped celebrate our exciting homecoming victory.

For years leading up to our becoming students at John Jay, the school might have appeared a foreboding place; we were nervous about whether or not we would fit in, whether we would actually enjoy our seemingly endless days in high school. But after a mere month as freshmen, we have been won over by the Patriot spirit, the merry events, and the fun, energetic atmosphere—especially in this year’s homecoming events. The annual weekend is a time when everyone can feel at home at John Jay, when everyone can have fun together. Let’s celebrate our pride in our school and our ever-burning spirit: Let’s go Patriots!

By Tanmayi R.


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