The Heritage Varsity football team played the Mesquite Poteet Pirates on Friday, October 9 at MISD Stadium for the annual fall Homecoming game. After competing hard, the Jaguars clinched a victory with a final score of 49-33.

“I was very surprised that we won,” Jessica Mendoza (11) said. “We were up against a decent team that we didn’t have time to really prepare against, so it felt really amazing to win.” 

The Jaguar’s Homecoming game was originally scheduled for October 9, but was canceled due to opponent Brownwood not being able to play due to COVID-19. The game and Homecoming Court announcements were scheduled to take place on the ninth but were pushed to the Homecoming pep rally that took place on Wednesday, October 7. 

“I was very shocked that we won,” Belles Lieutenant Mikah Melton (12) said. “After hearing that we were playing a team in a higher division, I thought that we didn’t have a chance. It was a very enjoyable game to watch, and I’m glad that we got to win in a close game on Homecoming.” 

Despite the turn of events that led to the game Friday, the team showed composure and still managed to play well. The players and coaches had not prepared to specifically play against the Pirates, but they overcame these challenges and won the game. 

“I enjoy seeing the Homecoming banners the most because I’ve participated in making one for the band every year,” Jaguar Band Drum Major Kynnady Sparks (11) said.  “I also like playing at the game itself because we get to show our performance in a fun atmosphere.” 

The victory on the field was the perfect end to an exciting Homecoming Spirit Week filled with dress-up days, Homecoming banners, and other Homecoming traditions. Hannah Dorsey was crowned Homecoming Queen and Brock Smalley was crowned Homecoming King at the pep rally held Wednesday, and the Heritage Theater won first place for their Homecoming spirit banner. 

“I love Homecoming,” Mendoza said. “I like to make mums and go to the football game. While Homecoming was a little different this year, that didn’t make it any less fun. It’s the school spirit and the atmosphere at the game that makes Homecoming special.”