MHS homecoming a community event

Maricopa High School’s 2014 homecoming week was full of fun and support from the local community all week leading up to Friday’s football game.

The week’s events kicked off when Mayor Christian Price officially proclaimed it “Paint the Town Red Week” and Friday as “Rams Pride Day” at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

“Homecoming is a time to reflect on hometown memories and bring the community together to make new memories with safe, school spirit-themed fun,” Price said with his proclamation.

Businesses and front lawns across the city were decorated in red and black showing their Ram pride.

"How could we not support Rams homecoming,” said Ace Hardware owner Mike Richey. “There's so much excitement in the athletic program with the new football coach from Hamilton High School, our athletic director and Merry Grace leading the student council efforts. When you live in a smaller town like this it's more fun to get involved, and nothing's better than high school football."

Wednesday night included a community parade at Copper Sky followed by an MHS alumni flag-football game.

Friday night’s varsity football game illustrated Maricopa’s support as the stands were packed with students and community members alike dressed in red and black cheering on the home team against Seton Catholic.

The fence separating the stands from the field was also decked out with artistic signs created by Pima Butte Elementary School teachers and volunteers.

“Our teachers worked with some volunteers the weekend before homecoming to create these banners,” Pima Butte Principal Randy Lazar said. “We used them in the parade on Wednesday as well, and I brought them with me to use for the homecoming game.”

The fun continued at halftime as the homecoming king and queen prince and princess from each class were honored at midfield.

Rams wide receiver Geovanni Walker was crowned king.

“I am really happy people voted for me,” Walker said at halftime. “I’m a little tired right now though, but go Rams.”

Senior Bianca Arnett was named homecoming queen.

“I really want to thank everybody that voted for me,” Arnett said. “I am just really happy.”

Although the Rams didn’t quite have the result they were hoping for on the field, they made a big impact on the community this homecoming – and vice versa.

Click here to view photos from homecoming week and to add your own.