Hononegah's adult leaders welcome families at the 30th Purple & Gold Festival

Natalie Fry's article describes the Purple & Gold Festival from a student athlete perspective.

Cheers and loud applause created a festive aura at Hononegah Community High School on Friday evening, Aug. 23, 2024 at the 30th annual Purple and Gold Festival.

HCHS Superintendent Mr. Michael Dugan asked for a nice  welcome for the Class of 2028 and their parents.

“You might not have been told but that this is a lifetime commitment. You will be telling your kids that I sent my kids here.”

“Our choral,  drama and our dance  do performances all year round,” Dugan added. “We all know that there is nothing good on TV, and only good things happen at Hononegah.”

“We are very excited about the school year, and our new construction of our baseball and softball renovation. That is just preparing for the next 100 years of Hononegah. Keep it well and informed and  in good shape.”

Dugan introduced members of the Board of Education: President Dave Kurlinkus, Vice President Mary Lewis, former HCHS Principal Mr. Eric Flohr, Secretary Bob Geddeis, Gayle Haab, Jim Minard, and Evan Schoepski.

Board of Education President Dave Kurlinkus said, “This is one of the best nights of the year, and thank you for all coming.

“As they announce the names, these are student athletes, and remember the order that goes in. A lot of great things take place on these fields and the fields around the community for these wonderful students throughout the year, winter and spring sports, but what really counts is what is taking place in that building over there. Since 1920, for over the last 100 years, we have produced the best students in the area.

“We have the greatest student section in the conference. We hope you raise the exceptions that have made Hononegah what it has become. We are the best high school in northern Illinois, as far as the eye can see. I want you to know that this continues on forever. We want you to know that we want to make sure we provide the best education possible.”

“My grandson is going to be a member of the Class of 2037.” Kurlinkus concluded by enthusiastically saying, “We are, Hononegah.”

Principal Chad Dougherty welcomed everyone. “We had 100 upper classmen mentors on hand to assist our students on their first day. We have amazing students and student leaders here.”

“We believe that one student, one family member, one act of kindness is the difference. We live it every day as part of the legacy that Mr. Kurlinkus was talking about. It is about education, athletic accomplishment, sportsmanship, citizenship, and we appreciate you.”

Dougherty added. “During the summer, when getting ready to come back to school, we ask, will we be ready? We can only be ready thanks to the support staff. Please think about all of those people who work behind the scenes.”

Those who are teaching at Hononegah or have retired from any of the sender districts stood to be recognized.

Dougherty said, “Welcome to our Booster Club. If you are interested in making contributions, please become a member and eat all the pork chops you can tonight.”

Dougherty recognized the administrative staff: Associate Principal Kathy Eckmann, Assistant Principal Andrew Miller, Assistant Principal of Student Services Andrea Linder, and Assistant Principal Bethany Meyer.

Special thanks were given to Athletic Director Mr. Andrew Walters. Certified staff member Jarrett Lindsey was welcomed as the brand new physiologist.

Kendra Asbury is Director of Human Services. David Berg is Director of Buildings and Grounds. Justin Krueger is the Finance Director. Andrew Piske is Director of Technology. Maria Small is Director of Food Services and Steve Zelten is Dean of Students.

Dougherty led in a friendly competition with students chanting “Gold,” and parents were “Purple.” It was determined that the students won.

Keeping the momentum going, Dougherty said, “We are,” with a response from the crowd of “Hononegah.”

Announcer Jeff Schelling said, “The Indians took NIC 10. HCHS won in wrestling, basketball and boys swimming. This spring they won the championship in baseball and softball. This resulted in Hononegah bringing home the All Sports Trophy.”

Schelling shared, “Twenty years ago the athletic director, then Mike Miller, was approached by a parent asking if the Hononegah football program needed any help.

Miller escorted that parent to the press box and said, “Here is the roster, here is the National Anthem, have fun and call the game.”

“That parent picked up the mike and ran with it,” said  Schelling. “I am sure that you have guessed that that parent was me.” Schelling thanked everyone who has played a role during his time. Schelling lauded the community for its superior academic and athletic achievements.

“I plan to stay as long as you would like have me, I cannot promise, I am unsure I can stay another 20 years but I will stick around as long as we get a new stadium and a turf football field,” Schelling said.

Earlier in the evening, volleyball games were played inside the field house. Outdoor action started with soccer and girls flag football.

After each was named by announcer Jeff Schelling, sports teams, the HCHS marching band, dance teams and cheerleaders paraded onto Kelsey Field

The HCHS marching band pumped up the excitement as they entered.

Teams included boys and girls golf, track, varsity and sophomore football, boys and girls swimming, golf , cross country, volleyball, soccer, tennis, and the newly formed girls flag football team.

Princess Hononegah Abigail Sommer  performed for the first time this year.

All joined in singing the school song.

Senior Gale Jenna Harms performed our National Anthem with perfection.

Everyone who has served our country stood to receive respect and recognition.

Rounding out a full evening of festive fun were energetic routines performed by all levels of cheerleaders and the JV dance team followed by football scrimmages.