By: Adam Freeman
A wave of school spirit swept through First Street and Chestnut on Friday evening as the community gathered for the annual Homecoming Parade, a beloved tradition that kicked off a weekend of football, pride, and celebration.
With the weather on their side and excitement in the air, families lined the streets to cheer on parade participants that represented the full scope of the town’s spirit, from the youngest athletes to high school seniors.
The parade, led by the TCHS Marching Band with high energy, highlighted the town’s pride in youth sports, featuring players and cheer squads from youth leagues, middle school, and high school teams. Local businesses, churches, and community organizations also joined the procession, showing their support with decorated vehicles and banners.
A major highlight of the evening came from the high school floats and spirit trucks. Each class, from freshmen to seniors, spent the week preparing eye-catching floats that reflected this year’s Homecoming theme, “The Wizard of Oz”. The friendly competition between classes played out through detailed decorations and loud, proud cheering from atop their spirit trucks.
Adding to the excitement were the Homecoming Queen candidates, each riding in style and waving to the crowd, as the town awaits the final crowning at the halftime show during Friday night’s football game. Not to be outdone, the youngest royalty made their mark as well, this year’s Little Mr. and Miss Mt. Lion were crowned in a sweet ceremony that melted hearts all along the parade route.
Young spectators were thrilled as candy rained from floats, and parents captured photos of smiling faces, school colors, and team mascots.
As the sun set behind the hills, and the band played the school fight song to close out the event, the stage was officially set for Friday night’s big game win.
