Last Saturday, students at Gabrielino High School attended the Homecoming Dance from 7-11 p.m., a day after the Homecoming football game against Mountain View High School. The theme of the dance was “Studio Ghibli: Finding Your Way Home”.

   The dance was set to happen outdoors in Gabrielino’s quad, but it began to rain shortly after the event began. Attendees moved to the covered cafeteria area, taking the opportunity to take photos and play oversized board games.

   “It’s actually really fun,” stated Samantha Haas, sophomore. “It’s been interesting with the rain.”   

   ASB worked to move speakers and equipment into the big gym, and an hour into the event, the dance resumed. The lights were off and students jumped to the music while holding phone flashlights and LED foam sticks.

   The DJ for the night was Dave Cameron, science department teacher.

   During the dance, many students spontaneously gathered in circles to cheer on people dancing in the center. 

   Midway through the dance, the floor was cleared to mop up spilled boba and acknowledge the Homecoming Court. Senior Grace Kuang was announced as Homecoming King.

   “The best part was the idea that many people supported and voted me for the title,” Kuang said. “It’s a nice feeling to have.”

   Once the floor was dry, students were able to resume dancing. Free water and chips were provided, and taco plates and boba were also sold.

   Last Friday, the Gabrielino Eagles played against the Mountain View Vikings at the Homecoming football game. With four touchdowns in the first half and one in the second half, the Eagles won, 34-6.

   “I expected it, the way we practiced,” stated football player Salvador Arias, junior. “I feel like it was an earned win.”

   Seniors Zachary Hill, Stanley Lee, and Daniel Ruiz made the touchdowns. After the Eagles’ third touchdown, they intercepted the ball during the Vikings’ drive, executing a pick-six and returning it for a back-to-back touchdown.

   For most of the game, Gabrielino was able to tackle the Vikings to stop them from advancing. Senior Isaac Valencia, captain of the football team, listed communication, teamwork, and brotherhood among what the team did best during the game.

   “It was fun, running into them, saying good job [after we scored],” stated Valencia. “It was a good feeling.”

   At halftime, ASB performed a battle between Studio Ghibli characters Howl, played by junior Jacob Schilf, and the Witch of the Waste, played by senior Reyan Nguy.

   After the skit, the Homecoming Court was brought onto the field. Senior Rachel Young was named Homecoming Queen.

   Young stated, “This is something that I’ve wanted since I was a freshman. I’ve tried freshman year and junior year, and I missed both times, so I guess this is like reverse karma.”

   The announcement was followed by a fireworks display.

   “I [was] very surprised, and honestly, I’m so happy,” Young stated.

   Cheer and band performed throughout the game, engaging the crowd and boosting morale. Students wore black clothing in accordance with ASB’s theme for the game, “Black Out the Stands”.

   “I love just getting the crowd involved,” said junior Gabrielle Rodriguez, a member of the cheer team. “Everybody just starts pumping energy.”

   Valencia noted that having the support of cheer, the crowd, and the band motivates the team and helps them do better. Principal Negar Mizani, who has attended every game with her family, also stated the school spirit and community building is what she enjoys the most.

   Former Principal Sharron Heinrich also attended the game. Heinrich described “coming home” to see Gabrielino students and staff as a lot of fun.

   “I’m thrilled that Gabrielino is beating Mountain View,” Heinrich said. “My husband is a retired teacher at Mountain View, so guess what it’s gonna be like at our house tonight!”