On Friday, September 3, newly appointed Athletic Director Chad Kish decided to surprise staff and students with a pep rally to celebrate the first football home game of the season.

“The pep rally was not a full blown pep rally, but an ‘exit pep rally,’” said Kish, “An exit pep rally is where the band, cheerleaders, and dance team perform as students are exiting school.” However, both rallies are meant to remind and excite students of an upcoming game.

Kish’s intentions were to encourage more students and families to come out and support the Lions.

“The event was received very well by staff, students, and community members picking up their students after school,” said Kish.

As the spectators arrived outside the stadium, the cheerleaders were ready to show their school spirit. They were followed by the band and dance teams.

“The Golden Girls were wonderful, and everybody killed it,” said junior Romiyus Gause. “It was on point.”

Everyone joined in, danced and had a good time with the band and dancers as they got ready for the home game.

“The groups worked well sharing the spotlight, and everyone seemed to enjoy the event,” said Kish.

Despite the great send-off, the football team did poorly, losing to Parkway North, 13-42. However, while the football team struggles to surpass last season’s district championship, U. City’s new athletic director has already won the hearts of student athletes and spectators alike.

Edited by Emma Mutrux and Matthew Russell