TOWAMENCIN – On Friday afternoon, the normally calm North Penn High School gymnasium was transformed into a roaring, spirit-filled gathering as, for the first time in years, students of all grades attended the annual Homecoming pep rally.

As the cheerleaders warmed up the crowd, students who signed up to attend the pep rally filed into the stands, fighting for their personal space while cheering on their classmates.

In previous years, all seniors would attend the pep rally, while juniors and sophomores watched from their 9th periods. This year, all students were given the opportunity to attend the pep rally, while those who did not sign up to be in the gym watched from their classrooms, regardless of their grade.

“[Being there] gives it a little bit of unity. If you’re there, you feel like you’re part of it,” commented Aaron Jordan, a junior who chose to be present at the pep rally.

After an energetic routine by the cheerleaders, the members of this year’s Homecoming Court were presented to their classmates for the final time before the night’s crowning ceremony. Following the introductions, the court members were whisked away by members of the North Penn Dance Team to be taught a short routine to Iggy Azalea’s hit song “Fancy.”

In another break from tradition, this year’s tug-of-war, instead of being waged between senior football players and teachers, was battled among the class’s Powder Puff teams. In the first round, the sophomores defeated the juniors, causing junior Manpreet Dhankhar to comment that such a loss for the older class “defies the natural order of things.” Later, order was restored as the seniors quickly overpowered the sophomore class in the championship round.

Just as in previous years, the North Penn Dance Team pumped up the crowd with an energetic and entertaining performance, gliding around the floor with unmatched enthusiasm.

The pep rally closed with senior football player Ryan Nowicki’s plea to students to come out and support their Knights during the night’s football game, with the crowning of Homecoming king and queen occurring during halftime. Given the enthusiasm shown during the pep rally, North Penn spirit for Homecoming festivities is in plentiful supply.