Sandwiched
One of the many things that impressed me soon after moving to Noblesville in August of 1998 was the high school’s Homecoming tradition.
I grew up in Mishawaka, Ind., which has many similarities to Noblesville. Well-preserved historic downtown? Check. A river running through the middle of the city with different zip codes on either side? Check. A population of about 50,000 to 60,000 and close to a much larger city? Check.
But when it comes to Homecoming, I’m afraid Noblesville beats my hometown by a long shot.
Don’t get me wrong – I’ll always love the Mishawaka Cavemen. In fact, Mishawaka High School’s beloved mascot has received recognition statewide and beyond for being so unique.
I remember having Spirit Week leading up to our Homecoming each year and some special ceremonies on the football field. We always had an informal dance right after the game. Our stadium was usually full and I remember being in the marching band feeling pretty pumped up about the evening.
I thought our Homecoming week was good, but seeing Noblesville’s version for the first time years ago blew me away!
Sure, the Millers have Spirit Week where every day is a different theme for dressing up. But the semi-formal dance the Saturday after the game brings a flood of well-dressed students to our historic downtown year after year for pictures. I enjoyed taking photos of my youngest son, Jacob, and his date before last year’s event.
Then you’ve got the Powder Puff games (freshmen vs. sophomores and juniors vs. seniors) and Mini-Olympics. And the different classes have float building all week long for, what else, a Homecoming parade!
I remember being curious about this parade years ago, since Mishawaka didn’t have such a thing. I figured it would be rather small and not a big deal. Whoops, was I wrong! Imagine my shock when I stood on the balcony of city hall during the late afternoon years ago and witnessed throngs of Miller fans cheering on a not-too-shabby line of floats, the NHS marching band, and different groups waving while walking together.
Finally, there are the senior cords, something I REALLY hadn’t heard of before. In the months leading up to Homecoming, kids get together and write or paint on their “cords” (white pants) about the things that best represent them. I saw many cords on display during graduation open houses last spring. Incredibly cool!
Sadly, I’ll miss all the excitement during the Miller’s Homecoming this year, which is a week from today. I’ll be in Boston. However, I know The Reporter and others will keep me in the loop with photos and stories galore.
Good luck against Zionsville next week, Noblesville, and rock on with your awesome Homecoming.