The 2009 Homecoming festivities kicked off with the Pep Rally Friday afternoon. The entire student body gathered in the Boys’ Gymnasium to cheer on the fall sports teams. The afternoon was capped off with the introduction of the new headmaster, Dr. Douglas North ’59. Dr. North spoke of his high expectations for the year and even reminisced about his experience as an Academy lifer. While the pep rally was in full swing, the Boys’ Varsity Golf Team narrowly defeated Voorheesville by one stroke at the Colonial Council Championships at Sycamore Country Club.
Friday’s festivities concluded in the evening with a screening of the film “Remember the Titans” on the football field. Popcorn and other snacks were served for the students and their parents.
On Saturday, before the Varsity football game against Johnstown, there was a tailgate party, complete with a variety of carnival games. A new addition to the tailgate merriment was a Faculty Chili Cook-Off. Alumni, students, and parents enjoyed numerous delicious chili recipes. There were also the traditional pregame classics including hamburgers, hotdogs, and ziti, not to mention a wide array of deserts.
Even before the tailgating, the Varsity Cross Country team raced in the Galway Invitational at Bob’s Tree Farm. The team finished second in the large school division, lead by individual champion and senior co-captain Zach Nelson.
A huge crowd of parents, alumni, parents, and, of course, the student cheering section had much to cheer for during the football game. The Cadets routed the Sir Bills of Johnstown by a score of 53-7. The Cadets were led by junior Zay Richardson who ran for 222 yards on 10 carries and five touchdowns. This performance helped Zay become the Times Union’s Athlete of the Month for September. The football team was spurred on by the loud and proud Big Red cheering section. At the conclusion of the game, the football players and students, piggy-backing off the Notre Dame tradition, sang the school song.
After the football game, the Varsity Soccer team played a tough Cobleskill-Richmondville team. The Cadets lost a well fought game 3-1, with their only goal being scored by sophomore Nick Abel.
As it is every year, Homecoming 2009 was an overwhelming success. It brought together alumni, students, and their families for a weekend of fun and excitement. Highlighted by a dominant performance by the football team, the weekend was memorable for all who attended.