Bulldogs gather in quad for homecoming rally
Bulldogs cheer along with the cheerleaders.
By Cole Yunker
Concordia Bulldogs representing all grades and sports gathered in the Campus Quad on Friday night at 8:30 p.m for a pep rally to bolster school spirit through fun competition, led cheers, snacks and other activities ahead of the Homecoming football game.
Concordia’s fall sports coaches introduced themselves, student-athletes participated in a dance-off, volleyball coach Ben Boldt rapped and the cheerleading team taught students new cheers at the pep rally.
“It’s great to get the coaches involved with the students, and I will say, our cheerleaders did a great job teaching all of our students how they can be in the band section to keep adding team spirit,” said senior Landri Loos. “I think that was super huge. I’m happy with the turnout.”
Sophomore football player Adam Cruise was also pleased with the rally’s attendance.
“It’s just really cool seeing (a large turnout). I hope to see the same amount of people out there tomorrow,” said Cruise.
Students at the rally were free to enjoy inflatables, music and dancing, chicken and waffles and a bubble machine after the scheduled programming.
“It’s been pretty chill. Right now, the bubble machine’s going crazy. Music’s going loud, people are chilling, so it’s good,” said senior David Marin.
Sophomore Bri Brake praised the pep rally for uniting various Bulldogs around school spirit.
“My favorite part of the pep rally has just been seeing all of the different people cheer on their coaches and just have a really fun time,” said Brake.
Director of Student Life Anna Stumpf also enjoyed seeing how the students came together.
“I think (my favorite thing about the pep rally is) seeing different classes come together and hang out and get excited about their community,” said Stumpf.
Nick Wiles, Concordia’s assistant director of student life, said he hoped the pep rally was a positive experience for students.
“I hope (the pep rally) has a really positive impact. I hope it inspires everybody to go out and support our teams,” said Wiles.
Freshman cheerleader Kyra Van Berkum also wants Concordia students engaged and spirited during homecoming week.
“Participate, go out, show a lot of spirit. You only get to do it so many times. Just have fun,” Van Berkum said.
The pep rally was the second-to-last event of Concordia’s homecoming festivities.
Students will gather Saturday, September 19, for a homecoming tailgate in the Holthus Family Plaza before the Concordia Bulldogs face the Mount Marty Lancers in Bulldog Stadium at 1 p.m.
