Riordan’s homecoming this year overflowed with school spirit with the annual fall sports pep rally, the homecoming football game, and the school’s first homecoming dance in three years.
“There was definitely a lot going on. Although it was busy and it was time consuming and it took a lot of effort from our team but also student parliament, it was a very rewarding weekend,” said Student Activities Director Benny Willers ’08.
The fall sports rally on Sept. 27 featured the cross country, girls tennis, girls golf, flag football, girls volleyball, and football varsity teams. Setting the tone for the “Home Sweet Homecoming” theme, the gym was adorned with candy and sugary treat themed decor including a life sized Candyland board game.
Willers added, “We put a lot more effort into the theatrics of the event and the setup in terms of the props. […] So I would say this one differed in that it was a whole presentation and a show rather than just the normal introducing teams and playing games.”
The following day, Mayer Family Field was buzzing with family spirit with the marching band’s presence accompanied by the boisterous student section decked out in a “white out” theme. After an exciting game, the Crusader football team defeated the Sacred Heart Fighting Irish 63-34.
That evening, students lined up outside Lindland theater’s doors, eager for the much anticipated returning homecoming dance, which according to Willers was “our largest dance we’ve had in a really long time, having around 800 kids.” Candy decorations trimmed the walls of the gym and cafeteria where the dance was held. The night’s festivities included photo booths, caricature drawings for the first time, and of course, dancing.
Sofia Lagomarsino ’28 said, “The first dance was great. I loved the lights, the photos, and just how upbeat it was.”
“Overall final homecoming was so special, especially compared to our parking lot dance freshman year,” reflected Fiona Mulderig ’25. “I hope that future classes will continue to have homecoming rallies and dances, since it’s such an amazing opportunity to connect with classmates and have a good time.”
Between a creative new take on the rally, a thrilling Crusader victory on the field, and the magical return of an iconic school dance, Riordan’s homecoming this year was one for the books.
