A battle for glory

It was an epic showdown between Shafter High School and Wasco High School after a week-long schedule of activities leading up to the rivalry game, a long tradition for decades. Though the WHS football players gave it their all, they fell short.

The festivities began on Monday at WHS with the student Dress Up Days throughout the week. In line with the "Wasco is Out of This World" space theme, students showed their Tiger pride.

On Thursday, there was a "Burn the General" community rally, with a paper mache Shafter mascot to set on fire, illuminating the excitement and spirit of the students as they geared up for the big game on Friday.

"The ASB officers and student leaders have been preparing for this week since summer and are eager and excited to participate," activities coordinator Hailey Coyle said.

As has been customary for many years, Shafter High School hosted a breakfast for WHS football players, cheerleaders and Associated Student Body leaders.

Jesus Figeroa said, "It's a good way to start the day. We're ready to put on a good show."

Daisy Asensio added, "This is a special moment for us. I hope both teams do really awesome today."

After breakfast, a rally was hosted at the SHS gymnasium, where a student-created video played, football players were introduced and cheerleaders from WHS and SHS performed.

Following the rally at SHS, students from both schools made their way to the WHS auditorium. It was a jam-packed event where, again, a student-created video was shown, and there were more performances, including a special dance by mascot Tilly the Tiger. The energy in the room was high as the crowd chanted and pumped up the players.

"I've never seen a rally this fun. Everything was great, and it went smoothly. It was a good way to jump off into the game," Giovanny Madrigal said.

Finally, it was time for the game, and it seemed like the whole communities of Wasco and Shafter came out to show their support for the players. The bleachers were full of fans from both schools.

The community's passion for this annual event was undeniable, sporting their school colors and waving banners to motivate their respective teams. The atmosphere was electrifying, and the momentum shifted back and forth as both teams fought tirelessly for the upper hand.

In the end, the final score was Generals 49 to Tigers 6.

Football player Kevin Mondragon said, "It was a good game and a strong rivalry. We expected to win and, of course, it was a disappointing loss, though we have playoffs in two weeks, and we're looking forward to that."

While the WHS Tigers faced a hard-fought defeat, they left the field with their heads held high, knowing they played with all their hearts.