Sofia Peviani, Staff Writer for The Powderhorn
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Watauga's 2025 Mr. WHS
Freshman Luke Wilmer shredding the electric guitar during his solo act.
Senior Cora Smith escorts contestant senior Holden Womack dressed as the lead singer from "Sting".
Mr. WHS is a male pageant that started as a way to raise money for community members in need in Watauga County in 2000. For 25 years, it's been a yearly event for Watauga's community every December.
"This event was started in 2000 by the Student Council to help Mr. Lan O’Loughlin, a science teacher and decorated swim and cross country coach at the high school, who had been diagnosed with liver cancer. "- Student Council
This year, the event raised a total of $20,135.02
Senior Calvin Zwetsloot preforms his "mute" musical act alongside senior Zeke Walker and senior Leo McEvoy.
Freshman Theo Naar and freshman Jonah Pearson referencing Top Gun in group performance.
“I participated because it’s a great way to fundraise for families in need. You kind of work with people to do something good for the community and it’s honestly a lot of fun,” said senior Leo McEvoy and this year's Mr. WHS.
"They're putting themselves in front of their peers to help their community. That's alway commendable, no matter the level of talent," one of this years judges, Ms. Wilingham, said. "The wide range of talents our students have, and how good they actually are was really refreshing to see."
Senior Jax Marsh preforming in the Mr. WHS opening dance.
Seniors Jedi Verling, Luke Benson, and Calvin Zwetsloot performing a band number in group performance.
Senior Levi Anderson and sophomore Oliver Lewis going through short Skit Show in a group performance.
Senior Elliot Taft singing his solo performance for the night's first talent.
“Since I was on Student Council, they highly encouraged all the guys to do it. I agreed, not realizing how fun it was going to be and it turned into a great experience overall,” said senior Levi Anderson.
Anderson was Mr. WHS 2024. Winning Mr. WHS was an amazing experience for a junior, and when opportuniy showed he took his chance to participate this year again.
"I honestly was not expecting to win at all. I just tried to make sure everything was well-rounded," said Anderson "I sang and played the piano last year, and I really enjoyed it.”
Senior Jax Marsh and senior Theresa Copenhaver during the wear portion of the show.
Despite being a fun experience, it can be a challenging standing up in front of a panel of judges and an audience. Even winners had to step out of their comfort zones.
"I was pretty nervous performing in front of a large audience,” Anderson said
“It’s definitely more intimidating when you’re performing by yourself," senior Elliot Taft said. " Cross Country has taught me a lot about performing solo and given me the confidence to go out there and perform.”
Freshman Reed Springer singing "Fly me to the Moon" in solo performance
Junior Luke Salee impersonating President Donald Trump in group performance
Freshman Teo Boccardy demonstrating Yo-Yo tricks in solo performance
Freshman Sean Rea referencing the movie "Napoleon Dynamite" in his solo performance
“Everyone’s doing something kind of stupid and silly,” said McEvoy.
“You kind of forget the crowd’s there.”
Having fun is the point. Between practicing and performing, unforgettable memories are made.
“Honestly, it was being backstage with all the guys. Goofing off, encouraging each other, and just having fun,” said Anderson. “You get a lot closer with the people you do it with, and that’s what made it such a great experience.”
“It’s a great experience, and it’s for a good cause too,” said Anderson "It’s a ton of fun and worth doing—just remember what it’s really about."
“It feels good knowing you can help people by doing something you enjoy," said McEvoy. "being silly and making people laugh.”
“My favorite memory was the big band act this year. We put so much preparation into it, and it was a lot of fun," said Taft “That was definitely the highlight of my year.”
Congratulations to all of Mr. WHS Winners and Participants of 2025!
Photo Credits: Watauga Yearbook
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