by Saniyah Courtney

The Patterson High School football field was full of joy and excitement as the students entered the field on October 10. Every class cohort came to support their teams and get hyped up for the Homecoming game.

The event began with a powerful Color Guard performance by JROTC, setting the tone for the Pep Rally while presenting during the playing of the National Anthem. Next up was the cross country team running down the track, followed by the girls football team, the JV football team, the varsity football team, and finally, the cheerleaders. The cheerleaders brought the crowd to life with their chants, dances, and cheers, showing off their hard work and spirit.

Students filled the bleachers and field, sitting with their cohorts and waving their cohort banners, posing for pictures and shouting for their class cohort while being asked what they like about their cohort, and which class cohort is the best. Lena Brown shared, “I like that my cohort gets along and they are laid-back. The best cohort is the Class of 2026 and Class of 2027.” Roman Clark proudly declared, “2027 is the best cohort because I like the colors and we are very confident.”

The day was packed with activities, including tug-of-war, rapping performances, cup challenges. dances, and even moments when ice buckets were thrown, making the crowd laugh and cheer.

Around the entrance of the field, students enjoyed sweet treats from the Kona Ice truck and other fundraiser snack tables. The Marines were also there with their pull-up bar, joining in the fun and supporting the students.

One of the biggest highlights of the pep rally was the announcement of the Homecoming King and Queen for the seniors, and Prince and Princess for the juniors, which were both celebrated with loud cheers and applause from their fellow students.

Students shared their thoughts about what they enjoyed from the event and what can be improved for next year’s pep rally.

Larry Escobar said, “I think today’s pep rally was fine, but it should have more activities so everyone could be a part of it.”

Myra Fortune added, “They did a really good job, but I feel like it could have been in the gym and we could have our phones.”

Ms. Masati, a teacher at Patterson, said, “My favorite sports team that came out was all of them because I love all my students.”

Zoe Harris also said, “I liked the cheerleaders because they did it the best and they showed off.”

The pep rally was more than just a school event. It was a day filled with laughter, teamwork, and pride. Each class showed their spirit, teachers and students came together, and everyone left smiling. It was a perfect way to celebrate Patterson pride and get ready for Homecoming, reminding everyone what it means to be a true Clipper.