Summer vacation is not over yet, but that did not stop Howell High School from throwing a pep rally and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate its new sports complex.
On Aug. 24, a pep rally was held for incoming ninth graders (the Class of 2021). The freshmen were greeted by upperclassmen and the varsity cheerleaders upon entering the new facility, and they were able to experience Rebel Yell — an a cappella singing group from the high school — sing the national anthem for the first time as Rebels.
Following the anthem, Howell’s principal, Jeremy Braverman, proudly addressed those in attendance.
“Tonight is an extra special night, as our new students and families in attendance are not only being welcomed to their new home, but are also the first to step foot on this newly renovated complex. Just think, in four short years, you will be enjoying this beautiful stadium on graduation day,” Braverman said.
Superintendent Charles Sampson praised the Freehold Regional High School District and the Board of Education.
“When we looked at it, it was clear that out of [the schools in the the district], Howell High School needed field space the most, so I applaud the Board of Education,” Sampson said.
The head coach of the Howell football team, Luke Sinkhorn, was in attendance and said this was definitely a “pride thing.”
“You get support from the administration and support for the faculty, and it provided us with a great facility to perform our best on,” Sinkhorn said.
Sinkhorn said that he and his team have not been on the field yet, but the players are very excited. The team will be om the field for scrimmages over the course of the next few weeks.
The home football opener will be Sept. 15 when the Rebels will welcome Freehold High School to their new field.
The renovated complex will also be used for other sports such as soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, track and field and cross-country, as well as events like graduation.