Homecoming at Walkersville High was packed with excitement, and for the homecoming court, it was a time to remember. Each of the members had their own story about what it meant to be able to win, how they felt, and the advice they’d give to anyone thinking about running in the future.

Noah Shankle (Freshman Winner): Noah went into the whole experience with the support of his family and friends, so he felt confident. Winning was exciting, and he admitted to having some “Butterflies” along the way. His advice to anyone running is “ Just push through. You can’t just be consistent for one day and just sit there for the rest of the experience.” Noah said his favorite part of the whole experience was walking through the field with his mom and taking a bow at the homecoming football game. For Noah, it was about taking each step as it came and learning to trust himself. 

Bella Altman (Freshman)

Bella was inspired to run for homecoming by her friend’s older brother, who had won it before. She was nervous but excited, though she didn’t actually think she’d win. When her name was called, she was shocked! Bella couldn’t pick her favorite thing from the experience so she said everything.  Her advice? “Be kind to everyone, even if you don’t know them. At the end of the day, they call the shots.” She said being kind helped her throughout her experience.

Chigozilim Ogwulu (Sophomore)

Chigoziem didn’t plan on running and wasn’t super interested at first. He wasn’t nervous, but he was still surprised when he actually won. Looking back, he said, “Try your hardest.” For him, the best part was walking down the field with his mom, creating a memory he’ll always remember. He also said this was his last year running since he won 2 years in a roll,he wants to give others the appropriate experience and wants to know their thoughts on it are

 Muminah Croy (Sophomore)

Muminah’s friends and family believed in her from the start, convincing her to join the court even though she was stressed about it. Although nervous, she felt happy knowing she had so much support. Her biggest advice is, “If you want to do something, go for it and don’t worry about it.” Muminah learned that sometimes it’s worth going after things, even if they seem a bit scary. She loved everything that had to do with homecoming week. She said she will take a break form running next year so she could give someone else the chance to  and run again senior.

Wyatt Smith (Junior)

Wyatt didn’t feel super confident going into homecoming court. He was nervous after hearing the nomination results, convinced he’d lose. But when he won, he was genuinely surprised by how happy it made him. His parents had been his biggest supporters, reminding him to “shoot for the moon, and if you fall, aim for the stars.” Wyatt’s experience showed him that sometimes just going for it, even if you don’t expect much, can make all the difference.

Alannah Fore (Junior)

Alannah decided to run for court without giving it too much thought. She wasn’t really expecting to win, so when it happened, she was happily surprised. She leaned on her family, friends, and her faith, especially the Bible verse Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” For Alannah, it was a reminder that support from loved ones and faith can get you through anything.

Austin Word (Senior)

Austin wasn’t sure about running, but his friends convinced him to go for it. His confidence grew with his mom cheering him on, and he realized it was more about the experience than winning. “Just have confidence and don’t worry about winning,” he said. His favorite part? Taking photos with all the people who supported him along the way.

Paige Harris (Senior)

Paige didn’t expect to win at all. In fact, when they called her name, she didn’t hear it right away! But with her friends and family cheering her on, she embraced the moment. “My friends just told me to do it because it’s fun,” she said, laughing. Her biggest takeaway? Stepping out of your comfort zone is worth it, especially when you have people supporting you.

The homecoming court didn’t just walk across the field—they each walked away with memories and lessons they’ll keep. From learning to take risks to just being kind, they’ve each got advice worth hearing. Homecoming isn’t just about winning; it’s about stepping up, relying on those who support you, and finding something new in yourself.