Endzone Returns to Farmington High School Bigger and Better
By: Forgottonia Times™ Report
At Farmington High School, the end of a home football game doesn't signal the end of the night. Instead, it marks the beginning of Endzone. This vibrant and much-loved tradition has brought students and the community together since 2004. This year, Endzone is back, bigger and better than ever, promising unforgettable nights filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie.
Endzone is an inclusive event held after every home football game, free of charge for all high school students. This year, the City of Farmington has approved Jacob's Park as the venue, providing a perfect backdrop for the festivities. Each Endzone night is packed with food, drinks, raffle items, music, a bonfire, and various engaging activities. It's a safe, fun-filled environment where the Farmington High School students can forge friendships and create lasting memories.
This year, Endzone is in the capable hands of Jacquelyn, a dedicated community member who has taken on a leadership role after her rewarding year serving on the committee last year. Her passion for creating memorable experiences has inspired an enthusiastic team of sophomore moms and a junior mom, all eager to make this year's Endzone spectacular. The community's involvement is essential. Outreach via Facebook has seen an overwhelming response, with many stepping up to join the planning efforts.
Jacquelyn was recently introduced to Mick Threw, who told her that the tradition of Endzone began in the fall of 2004 when he, his now wife, and friends in high school envisioned an event that would keep the school spirit alive long after the final whistle. Mick told Jacquelyn that though they came up with much of the idea for Endzone, the car-smash and bonfire pre-date their idea. The now annual car smash was once a yearly burning of an outhouse. That smellier tradition has now passed, and a committee has been formed to coordinate student activities. Mick expressed his gratitude for the continued tradition, fondly recalling the early days. Though the 20th anniversary would technically have been this year, the pandemic forced a hiatus in 2020 and 2021, making this year's continued return of celebrations even more special for the students than an anniversary. These long-standing rituals are integral to the school's identity and continue to bring joy and excitement to the students.
Themed Endzone nights add an extra layer of excitement. Coordinating themes with football games made the nights even more immersive. A "blackout night" at the game turned into a glowing extravaganza at Endzone, with glow-in-the-dark volleyball, basketball, cornhole, and face painting. With only four home games last year, themes included a water-themed night featuring a competitive water balloon fight, a glow night that was a hit with various glow-in-the-dark activities, the always-popular car smash during homecoming week, and a spooky senior night adding a festive Halloween touch.
This year, the football team has an additional home game, compelling the Endzone committee to add a fifth night to their plans. Sticking with the popular themes from last year, they're adding a Game Night as their fifth night, as well as creating new activities for each of the other nights, and acquiring more substantial raffle prizes. The dates for this year's Endzones are August 30th, September 13th, September 20th, October 4th, and October 11th. Plans are also underway for fundraising efforts to acquire new equipment, like inflatables, ensuring Endzone's legacy for future generations.
Endzone's success hinges on the generosity of the community. Parents, businesses, and community members play a crucial role in the success of Endzone by donating time, food, refreshments, raffle items, and funds. Contributions can be made through monetary donations deposited at The Bank of Farmington under the account "Endzone." Additionally, gift cards and raffle items such as Bluetooth earbuds, speakers, candy, snacks, sporting equipment, and Farmer's merchandise are welcome. Businesses can sponsor specific dates or contribute to needs like pizza for an event. The committee also seeks supplies they know they'll need every night, such as water, soda, Gatorade, cups, plates, napkins, and gently used coolers to keep drinks cold. Theme-related donations are also appreciated.
Every contribution helps create an enjoyable social atmosphere for the approximately 380 attendees from Farmington High School. The committee deeply appreciates all past and future support, ensuring Endzone continues to be a beacon of community spirit and school pride.
For more information and updates on planning, visit their Facebook page: Farmington High School Endzone. To learn what the committee most needs donated or to coordinate where you can drop off donations, email Jacquelyn at fhsendzone@gmail.com. Together, let's keep the spirit of Farmington alive and thriving through the Endzone tradition. Your support makes all the difference! Let's rally together, Farmington, and make this year's Endzone the best yet!
