School spirit is the heartbeat of every community, and at Greater Latrobe High School the enthusiasm is contagious. Between students, faculty, and alumni, Wildcat Pride is felt in the air.
The Greater Latrobe School District (GLSD) was formed after City of Latrobe public schools joined with schools from Unity Township and Youngstown Borough in 1962. With over 30,000 residents living within the GLSD district a great variety of people provide school support.
Over time the student section, better known as “The Den”, has filled the school with remarkable energy. The Den leaders are decided by those who previously held the role in the year prior. Seniors Luke Nipar, Cooper Basciano, Luke Willochell, and Parker Repko were awarded the title for the 2024-2025 school year.
The boys, who are all involved in school athletics, have made a lot of changes for the better. At this season’s football games, they incorporated splitting the student section after every touchdown. The celebration enhances the crowd’s enthusiasm for the game.
“I think we would have more school spirit if more people came to games to support each team,” Luke Willochell said. Even if the den was unable to attend, roaring support was felt. The cheerleaders, marching band, and parents helped bring the loud atmosphere even away from home. Fans are able to support the team with live streams provided by The Wildcats Network.
Senior High Principal Dr. Benning said, “They create the student section away from the Den.” Playing a vital role, the cheerleaders and band are the go-to for multiple events with mass amounts of community members.
Athletic Director Zac Heide recalls that the homecoming pep rally is one of the best showcases of school spirit.
Throughout the week of homecoming, school spirit is spread widely. Over the week, Pep Club sponsors a spirit week that helps build anticipation for the dance which is held at Idlewild & Soakzone. Friday is a jam-packed day including a pep rally, a parade, and a football game where the Homecoming Queen is crowned. Finally, on Saturday, students and staff attend one of the biggest events during the year, the homecoming dance.
Mr. Heide plans to bring more school spirit to the GL community by adding decorations, logos, and school colors around the school. To enhance the main gym area, his plan is to “Replace the carpet, add a touch-screen TV, and put a nice backdrop behind it.”
School spirit is more than just a display of enthusiasm, it is a reflection of the strong community and pride behind the school. Through events, traditions, and community efforts we look forward to the environment GLSD will continue to foster over time.
