Le Grand High School cheerleaders perform at the first rally. Photographer: Trinidad Gutierrez-Rojas
Le Grand High School cheerleaders perform at the first rally. Photographer: Trinidad Gutierrez-Rojas

The air was filled with excitement and energy last Friday on August 18, 2023, as students, teachers, and staff gathered in the school gymnasium for an exhilarating rally that marked the beginning of a new academic year. The rally, a first of many, featured a series of lively events that showcased the talents and enthusiasm of the student body.

The students were given a warm welcome from our Bulldog cheerleaders with their pom-poms, who greeted the incoming crowd with their uplifting energy and vibrant smiles. Their exciting energy set the tone for the rally as students piled into the gymnasium from the two open doors.

Le Grand High School cheerleaders perform at the first rally. Photographer: Trinidad Gutierrez-Rojas
Le Grand High School cheerleaders perform at the first rally. Photographer: Trinidad Gutierrez-Rojas

The kick off of the rally began with the gathering of the football players in their green and gold jerseys at the center of the gym. As the heart of the school's sports culture, the football team's presence was met with quite a few cheers from the audience as the men huddled together. Team captain Reyes Diaz, when asked for his opinion on the team for the upcoming season, expressed his optimism for the upcoming season, remarking, "So far, the team's looking good." His words were met with nods of agreement and heightened enthusiasm from his teammates.

Shortly after the players retreated to their seats, the ASB officers welcomed the varsity cheer squad as they took the gym and delivered an awe-inspiring performance. Their routine included daring stunts like throwing and catching cheerleaders, showcasing their dedication to their craft and their commitment to elevating school spirit through their dynamic routines.

The rally's competitions began with a creative challenge, as representatives from each class collaborated to style one student from their class with green and gold ribbons. All the classes took to the same technique by turning their classmates into mummies. The junior class emerged victorious in this event, displaying their teamwork in impressive fashion.

The momentum continued with the uproarious game of "heads, shoulders, knees, toes, and cup," a challenge that required quick thinking and coordination. It was Mr. Granillo from the junior class who secured the win, showing that staff members can be equally spirited participants.

A game of wit and speed, "first to bring," was a hit among participants and spectators alike. Students raced to bring various items to first an ASB officer, then the ASB officer brought it to a designated spot, with silence and then cheers filling the gym as each round progressed.

The rally also tested the students' agility and skill with the "rock, paper, scissors jump through the hula hoop" game. The seniors emerged victorious in this entertaining event, demonstrating their quick reflexes and quick decision-making skills.

The climax of the rally arrived with the announcement of the loudest class, a competition that showcased the school's unity and collective spirit. The junior class, having consistently demonstrated their enthusiasm throughout the day, took home the title and the spirit trophy, a Bulldog head.

As the rally concluded and classes dismissed, the gymnasium echoed with cheers and the sound of bleachers that will undoubtedly carry through the rest of the school year. The first rally of the year, fostering school spirit, teamwork, and a strong sense of community, set an exciting tone for the months ahead as school is just beginning.