It was the biggest game of the year — the homecoming football game — and the cross country team had just run the 8 miles from Hunter High School (the Jaguars’ opponent) to deliver the ball in time for kickoff. With rain pouring down all around them, the team ran onto the field to present the game ball to Danny Thompson, one of the football coaches for the Jaguars.

The cross country team had started the run at about 5:00 PM, with some heavy rain impacting the first mile. The weather lightened up after that, and the team was able to pick up the pace and get to the field around 6:45. I interviewed Zachary Kevan, a junior, and Eric Ward, a senior, to find out what they thought about the run. When asked what their favorite part of the run was, Zac said that he loved flying downhill and Eric said he enjoyed everything after the first mile. I also asked why they had chosen to run the homecoming game ball in. Zac had decided to run because he thought it was a good opportunity for team bonding and school spirit, while Eric, being a senior, decided to run because it was his last chance and he thought it would be cool to do it.

For the homecoming game itself, West Jordan lost to Hunter 37-27. The Jaguars jumped out to a 14-0 lead, but Hunter then went on a run, jumping out to a 29-14 lead with 9:18 left in the fourth quarter. The Jaguars stormed back with 5:59 remaining, cutting the score to 29-21 with a touchdown pass from Kenyon Shockey to Gauge Eaton. Hunter then scored again, however, sealing the victory with another touchdown run.

All in all, it was a night to remember and another great event for homecoming week. The cross country team running the game ball onto the field was a great opportunity for school spirit, and the football team, despite the defeat, brought energy and excitement. And of course, the students’ and fans’ support made the game the great event it turned out to be, getting everyone hyped up for the dance the following night.