![The Phoenix varsity volleyball team lines up for the national anthem. “We were more communicative [with each other] during this game, and I feel like we kept our energy up, especially after the first set,” senior Jessica Valdov said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC_0202-1200x800.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)
After an eventful Homecoming spirit week and Rededication Ceremony commemorating the school’s 10-year anniversary, the week’s festivities ended with the annual Homecoming football game and tailgate on Friday, Sept. 27. The Phoenix went against the Luray High School Bulldogs.
The first quarter started with a strong first drive from the Bulldogs as they managed to score a touchdown early. This gave the Phoenix players, like junior Paxton So, a middleline linebacker, a bit of anxiety. “It was my second game back from injury, so I was pretty nervous because we were going against a good team,” So said. “But I had to put up a fight, so I went up there and played my heart out.”
The Phoenix did not back down, however, scoring a touchdown not long after, ending the quarter 7-7. During the second quarter, the Phoenix managed to score another touchdown and then a field goal, concluding the first half of the game, leading 14-7.
Adding to the excitement of the evening, the Homecoming Court was present at the game, and during halftime, senior Lilia Jones was announced as one of two winners of this year’s Homecoming Royalty. The other winner, senior Lola Aguilar was announced at the Homecoming dance on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Following the nominations, the third quarter took a hectic turn as the Phoenix and Bulldogs regained energy for the second half of the game. The Bulldogs were able to score two touchdowns while the Phoenix scored one, leaving the score 24-20, keeping the student section on the edge of their seats.
In the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs made a strong push with a touchdown and a two-point conversion to narrow the score to 24-28. They followed up with another score, but the Phoenix, led by standout performances, refused to back down. Running back senior Shamar Ferrell put on an incredible display, rushing for 200 yards on 16 carries and scoring two touchdowns, including a game-winning drive that sealed the victory. Junior Michael-Jacob Tolson also contributed significantly, rushing for 46 yards on seven carries and adding two more touchdowns. The Phoenix capped the night with a final touchdown and a field goal, securing a 37-30 victory in front of a roaring home crowd.
While the football team fought and won the game, SCA was fighting a battle with the weather, as the tailgate, which was supposed to be held outside near the football field, was moved to the gym the day prior due inclement weather; this displaced the stations of activities and food. However, they were successful at bringing a large group of students and their families to enjoy that afternoon in the main gym.
The next home football game will be on Oct. 10 against the Dominion High School Titans.
