On Sept. 29, ETHS held its annual pep rally in Beardsley Gym. Taking place before the homecoming football game against New Trier, it kicked off with a performance of the fight song from the marching band.

In addition to the purely musical aspect of the marching band performance, it also served to get the football team ready for their game.

“I think playing music is fun. I think there’s a lot of energy, and [a lot of] hyping up the team,” said junior Herschel Abraham, a clarinet player.

For marching band performers, the occasion of the performance didn’t cause much extra stress.

“I wasn’t really nervous, because it’s the same songs we play [at football games],” said freshman percussionist Tatum Flatland.

The band was followed by a performance from the ETHS cheerleaders. Their athleticism and energy stunned students and staff alike as they danced, flipped and launched fellow squad members to dizzying heights. 

The Pomkits performed last at the pep rally, with their show being a combination of cheer and dance. A fog machine and multicolored lights contributed to the energetic atmosphere.

For freshmen and new students, the pep rally was an introduction to homecoming related activities that showcase the enthusiasm of the ETHS community and its student body.

“I was very surprised, it was just like a movie,” said freshman Ariana Valavanis.