Spreading Jericho Pride, One High-Five at a Time

BY SOFIA BOUTSIKOS ’29

Smiling faces decked out in blue and gold crowded the hallways of Jackson, Cantiague, and Seaman elementary schools on Friday, September 19, as young students of the district were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Jericho’s Varsity Football team. School spirit was at an all-time high as the football team, along with the Jayettes and the Pep Band, made a special visit to Jericho’s elementary schools to hype up the district ahead of Homecoming.

When the Jericho Football Team finally arrived, the players ran through the halls, high-fiving their cheering fans. Some players took the time to hype up their crowd by having them sing, dance, and shout out their pride for Jericho football ahead of the night’s game under the lights. Football player Halil Ahmetaj ’26 said, “It was so sweet to see how the elementary kids were waiting for us and made posters for us. These acts of kindness inspired us to make sure we won our game no matter what.”

But the fun didn’t stop there. The Jayettes performed a vibrant dance routine that had the whole crowd dancing along. And of course, no pep rally is complete without music! Jericho High School’s Pep Band also performed, filling the cafeteria with music. Between the band, the Jayettes, and the football team, the entire building was buzzing with excitement.

This energy was also harnessed into the high school’s Pep Rally and Friday night Homecoming game. The elementary pep rallies clearly brought the football team victorious energy as they defeated their opponent, Valley Stream Central. Ahmetaj said, “Going to the elementary schools brings back the love for the football team in the Jericho community…it inspires a new generation of players.” The visit was more than just a way to build football pride; it reminded everyone what being part of the Jericho community is all about. From the youngest students to the oldest, the day was full of smiles and school pride.