LOS ALAMITOS, CA — This past Friday, Oct. 6, Los Alamitos High School celebrated its Homecoming game with an emphatic defeat of the Newport Harbor High School Sailors. The stands were packed as Los Al Locos flooded the stadium to show support for their players – and they did not disappoint: The Griffins trounced the Sailors 62-14.

Homecoming is not only a game; it’s an event that showcases school spirit and artistic offerings. The mood was excitable just before kick-off, as Los Al’s national, award-winning show choir Sound FX performed the national anthem, featuring soloist Kendall Powers.

“I felt excited [be]cause it really gets to show everybody at school what I’m proud of. I’m pretty passionate about [choir], and it lets me express myself through the arts,” said sophomore Jack Burns, a member of Sound FX.

 Los Al dominated the opposition during the first quarter, including a stellar touchdown by sophomore running back Lenny Ibarra. The first quarter concluded on a high for the Griffins: a score of 21-7. Proud Locos displayed their school spirit by participating in chants led by JV and varsity song and cheer and cheering each time Los Al scored.

At the start of the second quarter, Los Al quickly scored again, leading 27-7 and creating what turned out to be an insurmountable lead. With five minutes left in the second quarter, Ibarra scored another touchdown.  Although the Sailors were able to score again during this quarter, the Locos remained undeterred, stomping their feet at yet another touchdown by Los Al with one minute left in the quarter, making the score 42-14.

School spirit, artistic accomplishment, and athletic prowess were on display after play was completed in the first half. This year’s halftime show began with JV and varsity song and cheer performing a stunning routine complete with lifts and flips.

Los Al Advanced Dance then took the stage to perform to a mashup of songs, including “Wings” by Little Mix and “Starships” by Nicki Minaj, sticking to this year’s theme “Homecoming in Neverland.” 

“The performance was so fun, and it was great to hear people singing along and enjoying our dancing,” said sophomore Olivia Inanaga, an Advanced Dance member. 

Then, ASB announced this year’s Homecoming court by having each nominee open a box to see if it released balloons to signify their win. This year’s winners were Isaiah ‘D’ Wempe as king and Melaeni Rocker as queen. The halftime show concluded with a rousing performance by the Los Al marching band and color guard.

During the third and fourth quarters, Los Al put their rivals away, with a complete victory of 62-14. Triumphant fans left the stadium in good spirits, delighted at yet another spectacular victory and an entertaining Homecoming game.