Homecoming Spirit Week is an annual tradition in many high schools across the country. It began as a college tradition in the early 1900s, drawing alumni back to campus to celebrate the school with a major sporting event, often a football game. The name “homecoming” came from the idea that alumni would “come home” to visit their school after graduation.
The week before the Homecoming dance is called Spirit Week, and it’s celebrated to show school pride. At most schools, Homecoming Week—or HOCO Week, as some call it—leads up to one of the biggest games of the year. While many schools celebrate their football teams, here at Meridian we celebrate our volleyball teams.
At Meridian, Spirit Week is already underway, with the school decorated for Homecoming. In previous years, we’ve had themes like “Pajama Day” or “Country vs. Country Club,” but this year we’re introducing some new ones. Spirit Week begins September 22, with Tuesday’s theme “Rhyme Without Reason,” and Wednesday’s “Double Up Day,” where you can twin with a teacher or dress up as your favorite subject. Both of these are first-time themes for Meridian. Some repeats include “Adam Sandler Day” on Monday and “Meme or Character Day” on Thursday. And of course, we’ll wrap it up with our annual Color War on Friday during the Homecoming Pep Rally, where each grade represents a different color.
Lots of excitement follows Homecoming Spirit Week. “I believe that they bring the most school spirit and really get people excited,” says Jayden Wambui. STUCO member Shreya Vasanjee adds, “I’m most excited for Rhyme Without Reason on Tuesday because I’m looking forward to seeing all of the creative ideas people come up with.”
September is always filled with excitement for Homecoming here at Meridian, and Spirit Week is just the tip of the iceberg. Mrs. Swain’s motto for this time of year is “For us by us,” as we hold these celebrations for each other to share and celebrate the love for our school. Ms. Chapel shares, “The week is about the students, and we want them to feel it and want them to show up.”
Homecoming is a great opportunity to bring the school together and a perfect way to show off our Meridian pride. We hope to see everyone showing their school spirit in the weeks ahead—so show up and bring the energy to celebrate Homecoming season with us!