This year’s homecoming football game was truly one of a kind. The past three homecoming football games have been scheduled either early mornings or midweek nights. This year, however, was different. The Staples Wreckers took on the Wilton Warriors on Friday evening, Sept. 20, under the lights.
Prior to the game, there was speculation as to whether or not students would behave appropriately or if it would be a repeat of 2009, in which many students were found to be intoxicated, some hospitalized and suspended. However, much to the delight of both students and staff, 2013 homecoming was a huge success.
Principal John Dodig’s overall reaction to the night was “positive. I liked it. It was spirited, and behavior was excellent.” The game went smoothly with very limited incidents and lots of positive energy. Dodig believes this is a result of the wholesome relationship between students and staff and the mutual respect they have for one another.
With a dozen police officers present—half in uniform, half in civilian clothing—there were no reports made. “As the principal of a large, public high school, it does not get much better than this,” Dodig said.
“Overall, I was impressed with the participation, enthusiasm and excitement that the student body provided throughout the whole week and day,” junior assistant principal James Farnen said.
The administration was not alone in its feelings of satisfaction by the results of the Friday night game. “It was really fun and I was kind of surprised about how well it went, but we definitely proved ourselves and I’m looking forward to being able to have homecoming on a Friday as a senior,” Claire Saracena ’15 said.
The widespread content with the outcome of homecoming provides excitement for students to be attending next year. Administrators breathe a sigh of relief as the game comes and goes without conflict.
“I’m a happy guy,” Dodig said.
