![With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSC_0154-1200x800.jpg)
![Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/feature-image-1200x823.png)
![Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_5383-1200x897.jpg)
![As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DSC_0057-1200x662.jpg)
On Friday Sept. 29, students gathered outside the stadium for fun and games at the first tailgate of the year. The excitement was high, as students were thrilled to be able to participate in a tailgate after the first one was canceled due to severe weather. The SCA set up an exciting tailgate with food trucks, ice cream, cotton candy, games, and face painting.
Students lined up to play several of the games offered, but the one that caught their attention the most was the dunk tank. Students got the chance to dunk some of their teachers, and they took turns to hit the trigger. Some of the teachers who participated included chorus teacher Jordan Markwood, math teacher Dermott McGee, and marketing teacher Ben Stodola.
Following the tailgate, the varsity Phoenix football team took on the Loudoun Valley Vikings in an intense game. The Phoenix started the game by getting a feel for their opponents. Senior Emmanuel Bankole started the play feeling confident. “During the first half, our team was trying to lock in,” Bankole said. The first half ended with a touchdown made by junior Julian Ogletree.
During half-time, the 2023-2024 Homecoming court was announced, andsenior Maggie Miller was crowned the first royal, leaving students in anticipation for the next Homecoming royalty crowning at the Homecoming dance on Sept. 30.
Following the halftime performance, the game was placed on hold while a medical incident was addressed. Following the brief delay of play, the Phoenix bounced back and senior DJ Ferrell scored the second touchdown of the game. The Phoenix played hard against the Vikings, but lost the game 42-14.
