What is it like to be a Falcon? At the beginning of my freshman year, I walked onto campus just like many freshmen do, scared and excited. I was scared of the “giant” seniors, but excited that I was able to finally say, “I’m in high school.” I had attended West football and basketball games as an eighth grader, but now I was part of the student section. Sadly, I was disappointed by what freshman year had to offer.
The first football game I attended as a freshman was disheartening. Our student section was impossible to find because of the lack of students and the lack of spirit. The small amount of West support came from parents and siblings of football players. Luckily, I had dragged some friends along. We stayed and watched with the few supporters then left, disappointed with our first high school football experience.
Now as a senior, I want to say one thing. Thank you, Falcons! Your school spirit is amazing. I don’t know what has changed, but something has. This year, Spirit Week was spectacular. I have never seen so many tropical T-shirts parading down our halls, nor so much red, white and blue for Freedom Friday. The rest of Henderson County should take a note out of our book. The students at our games are head and shoulders above the rest.
On Sept. 23, my respect and pride for my school grew even larger. Taking to the football field with the rest of my Falcon family, I couldn’t help but smile as we danced and sang along to Katy Perry’s song “Roar.” I know that many of you (as well as myself) were hoping that Perry would be at our school to serenade us. Even though we didn’t win, I know we’re the best.
My freshman year, West would not have been able to do what we did on that fall afternoon. The participation was remarkable. I saw students dancing and singing that normally avoid pep rallies and organized functions like the plague. Teachers and faculty members shook their tail feathers. The camaraderie helped me realize how much I love my school.
Keep that school spirit. Underclassmen, remember what it feels like to be a Falcon and keep that going. West has a lot to be proud of, and I know that in the years to come, we’ll have many more victories. So Falcons, hold your heads high and continue to be proud and cheer on your school. We are just starting to become what I wanted out of my freshman year.
By Anna Yarbrough
