Homecoming Court walks down the football field at halftime. Photo: Fred Assaf

Following the end of summer break, the combination of a football game, dance, pep rally and gathering of alumni excites students and gives them something to look forward to. Starting off this traditional week, students dressed up in fun outfits to match the particular day’s theme. From a comfy pajama day to twin day, students put their best foot forward to represent their support for the school. 

To prepare for the upcoming game the Lower, Middle and Upper school gathered around Inman to bring up the energy levels and get ready for a great night of football. With a wonderful performance from the cheerleaders, senior commentators David Grice and Briea Craft, the band and, of course, Sir Winsalot, students and faculty were able to be spirited for the school. Fall sport seniors were recognized at the pep rally along with this year’s Homecoming Court.

The Spirit Stick has always been a faithful tradition to Pace pep rallies where each school competes to see which one has the most spirit. This year, the Upper school lost fairly quickly, coming in third place, and the Lower school returning to class with the win. “We should have definitely won,” said senior Caroline Cole. 

The Homecoming football game was unexpectedly rescheduled to Thursday Sept. 29. due to the weather that Hurricane Ian was expected to bring. “It was unfortunate that the game was moved to Thursday. We did not get to play in front of as many students as we would have liked to, but we had a really great first half winning the game 33-7,” said junior Will Moore. The game was still full of cheer as the team beat Hampton High school. At halftime, fans got to watch the cheerleaders perform another complex routine and see the 2022 Homecoming Court walk down the 50 yard line. “This is always my favorite football game of the year. I love all the themes and watching the Homecoming Court” said junior Jordyn Howard.

The last festivity of the week is the Homecoming Dance which took place on Saturday Oct. 1. Students gathered to have a great time with their friends talking, dancing and celebrating. “This was my first homecoming dance and it was so much fun. I love getting dressed up and hanging out with my friends,” said freshman Anna Kate Shelton. At the dance, the 2022 Homecoming Royalty was announced. Seniors Brian Lee and Camille Caton took home the crowns. The wonderful celebration of Homecoming brought students a refreshing and fun fall week into the mix of the stressful school year.

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