Setting the tune: homecoming halftime

2–3 minutes

AHS cheerleaders and Marching Band bring energy, creativity, and school spirit to this year’s halftime show

The crowd filled the stands on Friday, October 17 as students, parents, teachers, and alumni came together for this year’s Homecoming football game. Cheers erupted as the second quarter came to a close, but for cheerleaders and band members, the night was just beginning. Homecoming Halftime wasn’t just another performance—it encapsulated school spirit in every practiced note, toss, and step.

“The seniors make the halftime routine,” said cheerleader Lucas Peng (12). With only 2 seniors on the team this year, they took the lead in choreographing and teaching the routine. “We started in August and started teaching it in September,” he said. “We got it down in 3 practices. It was great.”

Peng also talked about one of the team’s favorite parts of performing at Homecoming—the energy from the stands. “The student section is super fun. I love it when it’s completely filled,” he said. “The fun energy gets everyone’s mood up. We’re just here to hype people up and bring spirit.”

After the cheerleaders wrapped up, the marching band took the field to perform this year’s show, Resurrection. The performance featured the band and colorguard’s precise formations, vibrant visuals, and wooden torches that matched the fiery theme.

Audience members were impressed by the halftime spectacle. Nitya Gujrati (9) shared her thoughts, seeing them perform for the first time. “It was something that I have never seen before and just totally different.”

AHS Marching Band put on a colorful performance, entertaining the crowd with synchronized flags, and strong musical talent during this year’s halftime show (Photo Credit: Avery Pemberton (AHS Class of 2025)).

Drum Major and Homecoming Court King Benjamin Chen (12) shared his pride in leading the group and being part of both band and court. “I got to conduct the show in a suit, so that’s pretty good,” he said. But on a more serious note, he added, “I’m glad people trust me—not just as a drum major but to vote me onto the court. It’s nice to know that people in the band and at school support me.”

Percussion section leader Avish Zindal (12) mentioned how this year’s performance held special meaning as his last year with the AHS marching band. “Definitely, this year is going to be my best performance out there during halftime,” he said.

By the end of the night, both the cheerleaders and the marching band had contributed to making Homecoming Halftime one of the most spirited moments of the season. Mrs. Adiraju, a math teacher who was at the game, said it perfectly: “I think this is something I’ve never seen in my life. The way they walk—I can see that discipline and dedication. They are something amazing.”