There’s a buzz in the air. Hundreds of students begin to crowd the East Gym as music blasts. “Rebels” marquee letters light up the walkway as bright blue and orange balloons welcome athletes. Confetti covers the floor as Boy’s Varsity Volleyball chucks candy into the stands. Cameras focus on the brand-new homecoming banners that decorate our space. Pep Rally looks different this year.
Since last spring, athletes and students alike have seen significant changes in our school’s environment. From carnival games, soccer immersion experiences, and pizza trucks at homecoming, to fully catered dinners for coaches and seasonal athletes, South High’s Athletic Booster Club is making its mark on the school community.
The Booster club, which dissolved when the football team disbanded, returned to South last spring. Ms. Capodanno, one of South’s volleyball parents, said, “We try to engage the school community and recognize all the hard work our student athletes put in every day.
While the club’s reemergence may have been subtle, the organization has already enriched our school community. “Our biggest event was our Homecoming Celebration. It required extensive planning and coordination: working closely with our coaches, organizing parent volunteers to decorate the fields and sell snacks and spirit wear, and managing logistics such as entertainment, a DJ, and inflatables. It was a huge undertaking that required teamwork, creativity, and fundraising—and was a wonderful day that brought our community together,” said Ms. Capodanno.
In the past few years, Great Neck’s youth athletic leagues have taken a hit in enrollment. With only a few choices left for families, the Booster Club understands the importance of highlighting these teams. “We coordinated with local sports organizations like Great Neck Soccer, New Hyde Park Little League, and Flag Football to run exhibition games and build excitement across the community.”
The Booster Club not only promotes its fundraisers throughout campus, but it also brings a strong sense of school spirit through social media. With a brand-new Instagram account run by senior lacrosse player Rachel Lee, the club connects with students daily. “Social Media has been a vital part of the club’s success. Our Instagram, in particular, helps us interact with students proactively. Through social media, we’ve organized fundraising, increased student participation, and most importantly, grown the Booster Club.”
Additionally, the Booster Club has raised funds in collaboration with some of South’s favorite munch spots such as Chopt, Bango Bowls, and Chipotle. Much of this funding has been
