Homecoming 2021 Recap: A Celebration of 50 Years of Mustangs

Last Friday, one of the largest collections of Mustangs in one place gathered together to celebrate the School’s 50th year. Past performers and athletes, along with service members, were recognized. Former Homecoming Kings and Queens participated in the halftime tradition of honoring this year’s Homecoming Court. There were grade-level tents and a mini golf course created by Innovation Diploma. It was a Homecoming to remember.

Spearheaded by Divisional Leadership and Class of 2022 Student Events Prefect Courtney Roach, leading up to the football game on Friday, students across both campuses participated in daily dress up days, celebrating the occasion.

Tuesday: Superhero vs. Villains Day

Wednesday: Jersey Day

Thursday: Tacky Thursday/Tacky Prom

Friday: Tropical Getaway

Friday was full of school spirit with pep rallys on both campuses.

The Homecoming football game was kicked off with a message from Class of 2019 Jack Armstrong, that was pre-recorded while he was in town over his Fall Break. His message was followed by the singing of our National Anthem, performed by Class of 2018 Jordan Ricketts.

Coach Mike Edmonson, who is known for his commentary and announcing during football games, was joined this week by guest announcer, Class of 2013 Corey Knapp.

During halftime, the 2021 Homecoming Court was recognized, and a new King and Queen were crowned.

Students representing their classes were:
Class of 2025: Sam Koontz, Mia James, Nathan Nketia-Gyasi, and Tatum Overstreet.

Class of 2024: Burak Inel, Emi Lutz, Michael Pozzobon, and Katie Robinson

Class of 2023: Caroline Curry, Mary Fuentes, William McCallum, and Keith Williams

Class of 2022: Will Allison, Luke Barnes, Fiona Hendryx, Kate McGee, Aleni Poulos, Courtney Roach, James Shanks, and Sam Whiting.

Back on campus to crown this year’s King and Queen were Class of 2021 Andrew Douglas and Audrey O’Toole, Class of 2020 Lauren Waters, and Class of 2017 Gabriella Gonzalez, all past Homecoming royalty. This year’s crowned winners were Fiona Hendryx and James Shanks.

At the end of the third quarter, Class of 2018 Jordan Ricketts and Julia Willingham, joined by Class of 2019 Amberly Wilkes sang God Bless America, as our alumni who are currently serving in our Nation’s Armed Forces were recognized.

Second Lieutenant Matthew Cooper, Class of 2016, United States Air Force

Second Lieutenant Katherine A. Ward, Class of 2015, United States Army

Machinist’s Mate Nuclear 2nd Class Thomas Stupek, Class of 2018, United States Navy

Logistics Specialist Reginald Burnett, Jr, Class of 2018, United States Navy

Throughout the game, attendees gathered in grade level tents, at a New Family Reception, and on The Green, playing in Putt the Vern – a Journey Through Time. This 9-hole mini golf course was student-conceived, planned, designed, and executed for Mustangs of all ages to play during the game. It gave everyone a chance to relive iconic MV places, spaces, and events, while learning more about the School’s history. 

Every structure on the course was created or repurposed in the Upper School maker space by the Innovation Diploma Grade 10 Cohort. Every hole had its own story to tell. More on this project coming soon!

On the football field, the Mustangs never let up on Providence, ultimately winning the game 48-6. Jonathan Gallinaro had a team-high of five touchdowns, with quarterback Luke Barnes finishing the game 10-for-13 with 266 passing yards and six touchdowns. This victory improved MV’s record to 6-2 as they head into rivalry play, traveling up the road to Holy Innocents this week.

All in all, The Mount Vernon School’s 50th year Homecoming celebration was truly one to remember.