The night started in the South Gym, affectionately called “The Cage.” Seven seniors on the girls basketball team were celebrated. It was definitely a party. There were balloons, posters, collages and photo albums for each senior.
Players were escorted onto the court with family and friends. Their accomplishments and memories were shared. The gym was packed with fans, students, cheerleaders, leaders, and the pep band. Senior Alfridah Kizito sang a stirring rendition of the National Anthem.
The student section was loud and energized the Blue Devils, who were facing first-place Del Oro and hung tough. They were tied at halftime, but the upset bid came up short, and Davis lost 55-44.
As the girls' game was ending, the boys started their Senior Night ceremony in the North Gym, just a few steps away. Hugs, tears and kind words were plentiful. Kizito came out for an encore and nailed the National Anthem again in the bigger gym.
Students and the band moved to the North Gym. More students filed in, filling the student section for Break-the-Record night. The place was buzzing. At tip-off, the crowd settled. Students held up newspapers to feign disinterest in the opponent. When the Blue Devils scored their first points, it was mayhem. The crowd roared, and newspapers flew everywhere. The game was stopped for a few seconds as order was restored.
The student body really stepped up its game on this night. The cheerleaders, dance team, band, and large student section were energetic all night. Early in the season, the games were quiet and subdued. This lack of spirit was noticeable. Teacher and Blue Devil Pride Squad mentor Kristin Swanstrom noticed as well. She was determined to turn things around. "The student section is enthusiastic,” she said. “They lack experience and can't always 'read' the game to know what the crowd needs.
“The Blue Inferno can influence a game for the best. Like any large crowd, they can take on a life of their own. At their best, they bring the hype, and teams feed off their energy. Tonight, they were packed and ready. When Del Oro took control early, they lost direction and struggled to stay productive. But it was a learning experience. Overall, it was great to see so many students come out and support their classmates on the court."
Despite a couple of more stoppages from wristbands landing on the court, the crowd stayed loud and out of trouble for the most part. The most chaotic moment came with two minutes left in the first half. Several strobe lights flashed, and a shrieking noise started. The students knew this routine; it was a fire alarm. It was likely someone pulled an alarm somewhere on campus.
Unable to take any chances, the crowd — almost 1,500 people — had to evacuate. As they poured out of the gym, students, players and fans waited until the Davis Fire Department arrived and gave the all-clear.
After a 30-minute break, the game resumed. Half-time was entertaining; the dance team and band performed, and he students played a game in which they popped a balloon on their partner's lap while seated. They got a little rambunctious, but only busted one chair and sprained one wrist.
Out of respect, I will not share the game's final score. ... Click here to read full article
ARTICLE SOURCE:
