Tracy High held its annual powderpuff game on Monday, Sept. 30, as part of Homecoming week. This event featured girls playing football while the boys stepped into the role of cheerleaders. Over the years, this tradition has become a staple of the school’s Homecoming festivities, with students preparing for weeks to make it a success. The boys eagerly took on the challenge of performing stunts, jumps and routines, embracing this experience with enthusiasm. 

 The boys had a great time learning new skills and making memories with their friends.

“It was super fun and a great experience,” senior Allen Lamothe said, summarizing the enthusiasm shared by many involved. 

 This year, the cheerleading squads were split into juniors and seniors, each led by designated coaches. The junior cheerleaders were guided by Grace Finton and Kimberly Morenno, while the senior squad was coached by Kaitlyn Terry and Emma Sawin. Practices involved learning intricate moves and cheers, replicating the routines that the school’s regular cheerleaders perform each week.

 Despite some initial challenges, the boys put lots of effort into the routine and learning cheers. On the actual powderpuff gameday, the cheerleaders showed dedication by properly cheering on their class.

“Heckling the juniors the entire time was my favorite part of cheering this year,” senior Jace Johnson said, highlighting the lighthearted rivalry between the two groups. 

 “I loved being a powderpuff cheerleader. It was funny wearing a cheer uniform and having Grace and Kimberly teach us the routine,” junior Jake Hallen said, “I loved being part of their cheer team.”

Many of the boys expressed eagerness for the next football game, planning to use their new knowledge of sideline cheers. This enthusiasm extended beyond the game as they prepared to continue their involvement in the rest of Homecoming week, showing how the powderpuff tradition engages students and builds school spirit. 

 The annual powderpuff event continues to be an opportunity for students to step out of their comfort zones and try something new. With the support of their coaches, the boys embraced the challenge, and they were able to make fun memories in the process.