Harker’s first Homecoming at Davis Field on Nov. 13 was a fitting spectacle for all in attendance. The event got started at 4 p.m., with the junior varsity football team facing off against Berean Christian High School. Harker came up short in the hard-fought contest, losing 18-9.
Tailgate activities were in full swing by the time the varsity football teams began preparations for the big game. Students, parents, faculty and staff from all campuses enjoyed pizza, sandwiches, homemade snacks and cold drinks before and during the contest. Harker alumni were also in attendance, and could be seen socializing and catching up with friends and teachers at the alumni booth. A large bounce house and an inflatable slide were also set up to provide the younger students with some age-appropriate fun. Music was provided throughout the evening courtesy of the Harker Jazz Band, with Chris Florio directing. Transportation to and from the game went smoothly, due to the convenient and orderly shuttling service between the Saratoga and Blackford campuses.
Fans filled the stands to watch the varsity game between Harker and Berean Christian. Before the game, attendees were treated to an energetic routine by the varsity Dance Troupe, directed by Laura Rae, an enthusiastic performance by the lower school’s junior cheerleaders. The “Eaglets” also performed their traditional “fly by” through the stands. Prior to kick-off, a spectacular rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”was sung by vocal groups from all three campuses and directed by upper school music teacher Catherine Snider.
During halftime, the finals of the upper school tug-of-war contest took place, with the seniors taking first and the juniors coming in second. More halftime entertainment was provided by the varsity cheerleaders, who put on an entertaining and acrobatic display of school spirit. Shortly afterward, the students of the 2009 homecoming court were escorted onto the field, where seniors Kevin Fu (who, as a player, was suited up for the game) and Mahum Jamal were crowned Homecoming King and Queen.
The crowd was thoroughly fired up for the second half, which saw great competitive spirit from both teams. Harker eventually lost the grueling contest 25-13.
Slideshow of Homecoming spirit rally in the afternoon:
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