Darien High School has long been known for its high academic standards, athletic achievements, and a strong sense of pride among its students. Students love the school and are proud to be a part of the Blue Wave, but there’s been a noticeable lack of enthusiasm regarding school-wide events. Over the years, Darien students have struggled to unite in showing their spirit, especially when participating in traditions like pep rallies, dress-up days, and themed events.
When Darien Students were asked whether or not they had participated in previous spirit weeks during their time at DHS, most said they did not. Senior Meisha Butler stated, “I don’t dress up because no one else does. I see more teachers participating in the themes than I do students. I wish more people would dress up. I think it would be a fun thing for the school”.
However, this year a record number of students dressed for Spirit Week. Not only did students dress “on theme” for Pajama and USA Days, but Blue Wave Pride Day was a huge success as well. Every girl on a fall sports team participated by wearing their costumes on Friday.
Hope Jackson, a varsity soccer member and senior in charge of creating the costumes, stated, “The entire team is excited for the Homecoming costumes. One of my favorite parts of the soccer season is being able to dress up in crazy costumes during school. I’m so excited to be a senior this year and help decide the themes”. This is just one example of the excitement towards school spirit this year. All teams did an amazing job in showcasing their school spirit.
The first notable change in school spirit occurred at the first home football game of the season. For the first time in years, every grade showed up – and in theme. Ninth graders, sophomores, juniors, and seniors embraced the theme, flooding the stands with coordinated outfits, painted faces, and school pride. It was a turnout that hadn’t been seen in years; a reminder of how vibrant and fun school can be when everyone is involved. The energy was remarkable, and the game atmosphere was filled with cheers, chants, and a shared sense of community. Wave SuperFans, the student-run Instagram account for sports games stated that “All 4 grades showed out to make the biggest football section in years. Even admin was happy. We need these same numbers plus more for the rest of the season. This is only the start. We are so back (sic.)”.
Not only was the first home game a success but the same enthusiasm followed the football team to their next two games as well. Many students showed up to the game versus the Senators at Brien McMahon High School in Norwalk. Seniors came in white, and brought the excitement, cheering on the team despite being away from their home turf. Plus, even an early kickoff didn’t deter the crowd.
All grades showed up to the USA-themed game against Norwalk High School, eagerly packing the bleachers, even with the early 1:30 pm start. Fans showed up decked out in costumes: eagle onesies, flag dresses, flag overalls, and huge tutus. Not to mention the red, white, and blue face paint the entire student body had on.
The immense success of the first home game, and the games following that, were nothing compared to the Homecoming football game. Crowds of students, parents, and alumni were packed into the stands, standing shoulder to shoulder, all buzzing with excitement underneath the glow of the stadium lights. Every cheer, every chant, was louder than the last as the crowd rallied behind the home team, decked out in blackout clothing. A large portion of the student body came together at this moment to celebrate the school.
Although the Homecoming matchup was the last home game of the season, if the recent games are any indication, even at away games the stands should be full of students ready to celebrate under the Friday night lights. Students are already buzzing about the Halloween game versus Wilton High School on November 1. Darien students will show off their school spirit by wearing Halloween costumes to the game.
Of course, the final show of school spirit was the Homecoming Dance. It is the first homecoming dance Darien has hosted since 2017, leading to anticipation from the student body. All grades came together to celebrate in the Main Gym. Both the junior and senior proms are separated by grade, and underclassmen had never had a school dance before. Homecoming was the perfect place to bring our Darien community together and spread the spirit.
Overall, this year has been tremendously different from others. In every aspect, there is no lack of spirit. Darien students and ready and proud to celebrate their school at a plethora of events. Roll Wave!
