School spirit used to be a big part of EHHS — the cheers, the colors, the excitement before big games. But lately, that energy feels quieter. Many students say something is missing. So the question is: Do spirit activities still boost EH pride, or are they starting to lose their meaning?
Assistant Principal Mr. Anthony Russell believes school spirit plays an important role in bringing people together. “Anytime you can have an event where the school comes together as a whole to celebrate something — football, hockey, drama — it boosts morale and keeps people connected,” he said, “When students feel a sense of belonging, it makes for a better atmosphere.” He also thinks that students should take the lead. “It should be student-centered and student-created,” he said. “When students lead, they learn collaboration, organization, and pride.” His message is simple: Spirit works best when students are trusted to shape it themselves.
EHPS Athletic Director, Mr. Anthony Verderame, said the goal should be to make every student feel welcome. “Everything needs to be student-based,” he said. “What do the kids need? What do they want? We have to help our new families and students feel connected to our building.” His idea shows that spirit isn’t just about cheering at events — it’s about helping everyone, from athletes to artists to new students, feel part of the EHHS community.
For athletes, that sense of support makes a big difference. Football captain William Mensah said, “The energy is up — you want to play faster, you want to play harder. I’ve played in games with a big crowd and games with no crowd, and there’s definitely a difference. You feel that energy and presence.” When students fill the stands and show up for each other, it builds pride and brings people closer. Spirit isn’t about how loud the crowd is — it’s about knowing people care.
Senior Ava DiNola agrees that EHHS needs a change. She shared that school spirit feels very low and that it’s time for a real refresh. According to Ava, many students don’t make much effort to show up for games or support their teams. She explained that attending events is more than just watching — it’s a chance to hang out with friends, cheer for classmates, and show real pride. For her, those moments help students feel connected, and when fewer people get involved, that sense of connection starts to disappear.
The Hive, our EHHS student section and school spirit group, has also been having trouble. Rachel Pistone, one of the Hive Leaders who organizes pep rallies and spirit weeks, said her group works hard to keep things exciting and original. She mentioned that the same games can start to feel repetitive and lose their pull, so they try to bring in upbeat students and give newcomers a chance to participate. However, Rachel admitted that keeping things fresh isn’t always simple — many of their ideas get turned down or receive negative feedback from staff or peers. That challenge can be discouraging, especially for student leaders eager to make a difference. When creative ideas are shut down, it can stifle enthusiasm and make it harder to build school pride.
So maybe spirit activities do boost EH pride — but only when they’re creative, student-led, and supported by everyone. School spirit isn’t just about pep rallies or wearing gold and blue. It’s about belonging — and that’s something East Haven High can always rebuild, together.
