Homecoming Parade Makes a Comeback After a Two-Year Break
The marching band led a parade of students from the school to Midwood Field. Photo: Jacklyn Tsipkis
By JACKLYN TSIPKIS, ZOË RAY, RENDY LI, and CHRISTINA LIN
Pride and excitement filled the air as students marched towards Midwood Field to watch the Varsity Football team face off against Lehman High School for the Homecoming Game on Saturday, November 12.
The Homecoming Parade made a comeback after a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19, gathering many students and faculty outside the school to march with the band on a sunny morning.
The parade, carried out by the Midwood marching band alongside a few members from the symphonic band, left the front entrance shortly after 11:00 a.m while playing “Monster” by Skillet.
“I really liked the feeling of Midwood coming together and marching with pride,” said Hayley Chung ‘24, an audience member.
“It was really fun even though I had no idea what football was about,” said Christina Cen ‘25. “They made the $5 dollars [the game’s ticket price] totally worth it!”
A great variety of students came to support the band including our own Varsity Baseball Team, JV Football Team, and the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team.
“I wanted to come here and bring my baseball boys together, rep out, and show that we really care about school spirit,” said Luke Blozy '23, captain of the Varsity Baseball Team.
Students and fans wore white to show school spirit and support for the team. Even our own mascot, Howie the Hornet, joined students outside before escorting the crowd to the field.
It was a nostalgic moment for the Class of 2023, including Andrea Wu, a yearbook photographer. “The last time I went to this game was in 9th grade,” she said. “I was actually a clarinet player, so I marched in the field myself and it was fantastic.”
Mr. Daniel Jordan, the band director, led his students along Bedford Avenue to Avenue K. Bystanders watched from their porches and windows while the band filled the streets with live music and cheer.
“I’m proud to be here,” said Peter Oliver ‘23, a drummer. “It makes me feel good to be a part of the beehive.”
Many other faculty also had a part in organizing the event, including Principal Robert J. Quinlan, Ms. Beth Vershleiser, Mr. Anthony Odita, Mr. Lawrence Kolotkin, and Mr. Richard Franzese.
“It’s been amazing,” said Dr. Quinlan about his first homecoming parade with the school. “It’s a good crowd, the school’s phenomenal, the kids are even better. It's really been an incredible experience so far.”
The exceptional performance from the band really set the tone for the football team. The game was certainly something that shouldn’t have been missed, with Midwood dominating the playing field for a 61-30 win. During halftime, Ms. Marie Volcy’s Step Team performed an enthusiastic and entertaining set for the crowd.
“It’s a good feeling through all the wins and loses because we have a bond on and off the field,” said Jahiver Adonis ‘25 a JV football player.
The varsity football team defeated Lehman High School 61-30. Photo: Andrea Wu
Mr. Kolotkin, the coordinator of student affairs, enjoyed being a part of the process.
“It was fun,” he said. “Everyone had a little part to play. My part was kind of reminding people which way to walk, where to make the turns, things like that, getting Howie together.”
The parade created a memorable experience for students and staff and marked this as the first truly normal school year after the pandemic.
While the parade went smoothly, the preparation behind it showed a little rustiness. “We only had two weeks to prepare,” said Mr. Jordan. “Prior to the parade, we had performed in Latin Fest, and all of a sudden we had to provide music for the kids and drill it into their heads.”
“Pre-Covid, the parade was easier since students retained their playing abilities over the years,” he added.
Nevertheless, even with the short notice time, the marching band was determined to make the performance as successful as possible. They even scheduled a rehearsal on Election Day from 8:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m.
“The band played well taking into account the time frame we were given,” said Adrian Perez ‘24, a performer and drum major. “Overall, I'm really proud of them.”
Mr. Jordan gave the new principal props for his support.
“Dr. Quinlan has been a huge motivation for our hard work this year since he will be able to get improvements for the band,” said Mr. Jordan. “However, they do deserve a break for all their hard work and dedication towards their craft.”
Homecoming often sets the tone for the school year, and this year’s event did not disappoint.
“This is what we're talking about,” said Dr. Quinlan. “Getting everyone together, it positively impacts school spirit.”