No place like homecoming…Even at a different stadium 

Homecoming is an exciting school event that sets a positive tone for the fall semester. It’s a time to reconnect with friends and celebrate school spirit. Though this year’s homecoming had faced unexpected challenges because Hurricane Beryl left Delmar Stadium damaged, this year’s game was still unforgettable and a memory to cherish for years to come.

Usually, the homecoming dance happens after the football game, letting everyone enjoy a whole day of fun before dancing the night away. But since Delmar went through severe damages, they switched things up and had the dance before the big game this year. While this adjustment seems small on paper, it shifted students’ usual expectations and routines. “This was a change for me since I perform at the football games, and I’m used to the adrenaline of the game going into the dance,” says senior Micaela Jewett. “It was a little strange at first, but the dance was still fun.” 

But as the football game approached, everyone was excited. Students, parents, teachers, and administrators filled the area to cheer for their team against Westside High School. The student section was packed, and the energy in the stadium was buzzing. For many, this was the game they looked forward to most all year. “I never go to football games unless it’s homecoming because that’s when I know for sure the atmosphere is going to be ‘live at five,’” says junior Soni Rogers.

The game began with the JROTC presenting the colors and the school band performing the national anthem, setting the tone for an exciting night. Cheerleaders, the Rangerettes, the dance team, and football players lined the sidelines, eager for the kickoff. “As a cheerleader, it’s our job to rally the crowd at every game, but for homecoming, everyone was already pumped. It was more about having a good time with the crowd,” says senior Jaymie Charles.

As halftime approached, excitement filled the air as the focus shifted to the homecoming court. With the second quarter’s end, the football players left the field, making way for the lively Rangerettes and cheerleaders, introducing the candidates for homecoming king and queen. Dressed elegantly, the nominees smiled and waved, engaging with their supportive family and friends, fully embracing the moment.

“The whole experience was really fun, honestly, it didn’t matter to me if I won or not. Just being a part of it made this homecoming special for me.”says senior Melinee Hardy. With the candidates lined up, the candidates for kings on the right and candidates for queens on the left, the tension grew. Students in the stands whispered predictions and cheered for their favorites. Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. The JROTC raised their sabers, creating a ceremonial arch for the winners to walk through.

The announcer’s voice echoed across the stadium announcing the 2024 Homecoming King and Queen were seniors Ronin Chaney and Jada West.  The crowd erupted in cheers as the newly crowned king and queen beamed with joy. “Winning hoco queen is definitely going to be the highlight of my senior year for a long time,” says Jada West with a wide smile. Ronin Chaney looked equally thrilled as he waved to the crowd, soaking in the applause.

Principal Graves joined the winners for photos, and the entire stadium cheered in support. The homecoming court posed proudly on the field, celebrating the moment with their friends and family. After the crowning ceremony, the game resumed, and the Texans kept playing strongly. They won against Westside with a score of 42-16. 

Even though the homecoming dance had already taken place, the leftover adrenaline lingered in the air. As the final moments of the game played out, the school band launched into the triumphant notes of “I’m So Glad,” the winning anthem for the 2024 homecoming. The crowd cheered and celebrated one last time, savoring the moment.

Looking back, this year’s homecoming was different from those in the past, but the school spirit remained as strong as ever. From the dance to the halftime ceremony, and finally to the football victory. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, students, staff, and parents united to create an unforgettable event. This homecoming had its twists, but the memories will last a lifetime