During their fourth period class, eager students piled into the gym as booming music played in search of a seat in the already overflowing bleachers to CCHS’ annual homecoming pep rally. As administrators packed straying students into the stands, their classmates roamed the gym floor snapping pictures and documenting the event. The rally was in full swing until the final bell rang, featuring the cheerleaders, swim team, cross country team, volleyball team football team and Sound of Pride marching band.
Upon the arrival of the football team, one of the main reasons for the gathering, the players entertained their audience with a sassy rendition of Britney Spears’ “Hit Me Baby One More Time.”
“I loved when the football players did their dance to ‘Hit Me Baby One More Time,’” junior Gabby Carbone said. “I [have] never laughed so hard.”
Later, the organizers of the rally introduced a new event for class officers, who were tasked with creating a float out of a shopping cart to represent their class. Following the new introduction, the debut of court took place, each class cheering for their representatives as they entered the gym.
“My absolute favorite part were all the team cheers and dances because it showed how connected and close all the teams were,” freshman Rachel Goldberg said. “When they did them, the team members looked so happy and excited.”
The occasion, however, was interrupted when Western High School’s Wildcat mascot scurried into the gym, but was eventually restored to order by CCHS mascot Pistol Pete, who lassoed him out. The rally continued on with contests between the classes including a chanting competition, won by the seniors and a doughnut speed eating game won by the sophomores.
The lively event was closed by the Sound of Pride marching band performing their halftime show for the school, an enjoyment for those in the bleachers and on the court.
“The highlight for me was performing in front of the whole school, ” senior Caroline Callahan said.
Many said that the pep rally was successful in alleviating stress and creating a great environment for the homecoming game.
“I felt the pep rally was a really fun way to break up the week and have some fun with our friends,” sophomore Cassidy Sutton said.
The gathering served as a showcase for the current athletic achievements of this school year while bringing the student body together to build school spirit.
Photo by Ben Milgram
