Homecoming Week

This week, both of the schools I work for celebrate Homecoming week, Every year, it brings up memories of previous homecomings and my participation in those. Way back in high school, I was fortunate to make the homecoming court (no I did not win!) and remember coming into the coronation ceremonies in a tux with one of he queen candidates dancing to the hit song “Puttin’ on the Ritz” with a top hat and cane! Not sure how I was talked into that but glad there is no video to show how it all looked! It was a great time with amazing friends and homecoming is always a special time for not only students and staff in school, but also alumni who love to come back and support the school and activities during the week.

I can’t help but reflect on what this week really means. Yes, it’s about the big game, the pep rally, the coronation, and the parade. But more than that, it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and connection. Homecoming offers lessons that reach far beyond the football field or volleyball court—if you think about it, there are lessons that apply to sports, leadership, and everyday life.

Tradition Matters

Homecoming reminds us of the importance of traditions. Students take part in the same spirit days and activities that generations before them did. Something simple like kids T-P ing your house (something I spent much time cleaning up!) is a tradition that has gone on forever. Alumni return to reconnect, tell stories about the old days, and relive old memories. These traditions help give us pride, identity, and a sense of belonging. In the same way, teams and organizations that build traditions create a culture that lasts well beyond a single season. Having traditions help build and continue a positive culture that is crucial for all groups of people that wish to succeed at a higher level.

Celebration of Community

I must admit that as an athletic coach of a sport other than football, I wasn’t always excited about homecoming. My volleyball players were often distracted by activities, there were always some tiffs related to the homecoming court or dance, and the whole week is tiring for everyone involved. However, I came to realize in the bigger picture of things, being involved in homecoming activities meant much more than the slight negative impact it had on my activities. The magic of Homecoming isn’t confined to the game itself. It’s the parade, the band, the cheerleaders, the decorated hallways, and families filling the stands. Everyone contributes to the celebration, reminding us that true success isn’t just about outcomes—it’s about the shared joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves.I see that much more clearly now that I am not as involved with another high school activity as I once was.

Everyone Has a Role

While the football players and cheerleaders often dominate homecoming activities because of the activities, countless others—band members, student council, parents, staff, and volunteers—help make Homecoming special. It takes a village to make it all work. I saw this especially in my role as an AD. There is so much planning behind the scenes that goes into making homecoming weeks work. This is a powerful lesson for any team or workplace: success is built when each role is valued, even if it doesn’t always get the spotlight, and when each person embraces his/her role to the fullest.

Memories Outlast Results

Years from now, people may not remember the score of this year’s Homecoming game. But they’ll remember walking in the parade, decorating floats, celebrating at the dance, and sharing laughs with friends. The experience outlasts the results. As coaches, leaders, or parents, it’s worth asking: what kind of memories are we helping create for those we lead? We should always be finding ways to make better activities experiences for kids and that means focusing on the big picture and not getting too caught up in results.

Homecoming is special because it brings people together, celebrates tradition, and creates lasting memories. It’s a reminder that life, like sports, isn’t just about winning and losing. It’s about connection, joy, resilience, and the impact we leave on others. As many of you celebrate this week, let’s carry those lessons into the rest of the season and beyond—because that’s where the real victory lies. Take time to enjoy the activities and the process behind each one.

Have a great week!

Coach K