Tomcats celebrate Homecoming

East Aurora High School students, staff, alumni and community members celebrated Homecoming Week with spirit days, athletic events, a student assembly, the return of the Homecoming parade, a football victory and a dance.

Students participated in a different spirit theme each day. Monday was Pajama Day, followed by Anything but a Backpack Day on Tuesday, when students carried their school supplies in school-appropriate alternatives. 

Students dressed alike for Twin Day on Wednesday and wore outfits inspired by actor Adam Sandler on Thursday. The week concluded Friday with Class Color Day. Freshmen wore green, sophomores wore blue, juniors wore pink, seniors wore purple and teachers wore East High gear.On Thursday, students gathered for a Homecoming assembly featuring music, games and performances.

The celebration continued Friday with the return of the Homecoming parade after several years. About 1,000 students and adults participated. The parade included the marching band, NJROTC, athletic teams, student clubs and parent organizations. Families and community members gathered along the route to support the participants.

Before the Homecoming football game, East High recognized 70 seniors representing football, dance, cheer, cross-country, tennis and marching band.

Four alumni groups attended the game, including East High’s first African American class reunion and reunions for the classes of 1986, 1996 and 2006. Players from the undefeated middle school Tomcats football team also attended and walked onto the field with the varsity team before the game.

The Tomcats defeated rival Larkin, 50-12, and reclaimed the Thunder Bucket. The victory improved East High’s record to 3-2 before its Friday, Sept. 25, game at Bartlett.

Homecoming Week concluded with a dance attended by 440 students despite the rain. Students enjoyed their music and dancing. Dick's Mini Donuts sold sweet treats, and the taco truck was especially popular with students.

Principal Kevin Martin said he enjoyed seeing the boys’ ties matching their dates’ dresses.

“Our students were awesome, as they always are,” Martin said.

The student assembly, parade, alumni gatherings, football game and dance gave students and community members several opportunities to celebrate East High and its Homecoming traditions.