RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – It was a homecoming celebration like no other at Cordova High School on Friday, Oct. 10, as alumni spanning six decades returned to their alma mater to reconnect, reminisce and cheer on the Lancers.

The school's annual homecoming festivities included a lively alumni reception, an energetic alumni parade during halftime and several performances by current and former cheerleaders, all culminating in a football game filled with school spirit.

The homecoming tradition at Cordova High has long been a cherished occasion for former students but this year’s event seemed to carry a special sense of nostalgia, particularly for those who had returned for milestone reunions.

The Cordova High School Class of 1974 members hold up their banner prior to the Alumni Homecoming parade. Photo by Ornella Rossi

One of the highlights of the evening was the Alumni Parade during the football game’s halftime. Graduates from the Classes of 1965 through 2025 proudly paraded across the field, waving signs and posters celebrating their respective years of graduation. The Class of 1995 led the charge with the largest turnout, as members celebrated their 30-year reunion. Their enthusiasm was matched by the Class of 1974, which boasted a near-record level of participation.

“I was excited to come today to talk to people that have been around and say hello,” said Loren Cooper, a Class of 1967 member, who has attended every alumni parade since its inception. “It’s just a great feeling to see familiar faces and relive old memories.”

Before the parade, alumni gathered in the cafeteria for a reception that allowed them to reconnect with classmates and share stories of their time at Cordova. The reception, organized by Terry Behrens (Class of 1973), featured drinks, cake, cookies and snacks, with students from the senior class volunteering to assist. Behrens, who has been instrumental in keeping alumni connected through two Facebook groups, said the event was an opportunity for graduates to come home and reminisce.

“Cordova High has always celebrated homecoming, and this alumni celebration is all about bringing the alumni back together,” Behrens said. “It’s so important for us to stay connected, and it's wonderful to see alumni from 61 years of graduating classes here today.”

Younger generations of alumni included the Class of 2023, Class of 2024 and Class of 2025. Photo by Rick Sloan

The first 100 alumni to arrive at the reception received specially-crafted treat bags, which included a carved wooden Cordova High School Shield magnet made by Dennis Trainor, a member of the first graduating Class in 1965. The bags were created with the help of Bee Lopez of Explore Rancho Cordova, part of the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s really surprising to see how many people are still involved with the school no matter how long it’s been,” said Kimberly Botiello, a Cordova High School senior who volunteered at the reception. “It’s surprising to hear the stories they tell, especially about how much the school has changed.”

The school’s cheer squad, the Big Red Marching Machine and the color guard performed to the delight of the alumni during the reception. Several former cheerleaders also joined the current squad to perform a routine they had learned in just two days of practice. Among them was Joy McElwee, who had traveled all the way from Colorado to participate.

“It’s really different now than what it was back then,” McElwee said, reflecting on her experience. “Learning the new cheers was challenging but the girls were so nice and patient with us. I’m here for my 55th reunion and it’s so much fun to see everyone again.”

The Cordova High School cheer squad was joined by former Lancer cheerleaders for a special performance during the homecoming celebration. Photo by Ornella Rossi

The connection between generations of Lancers was further strengthened by the presence of the school’s Junior ROTC program, whose members were also at the reception. Aiden Williamson, a cadet, expressed his amazement at the school’s long history.

“When I first moved here, I thought the school had only been open for 10 years but now I realize it’s been around since the '60s,” Williamson said. “It’s cool to see all these people who were part of something so special.”

After the reception, alumni and current students filled the stands for the homecoming game. Special seating was reserved for the alumni, who cheered loudly for their team and participated in the school spirit that has endured over the years

Following the game, alumni continued the celebration at Straw Hat Pizza and Lazy Dog, where old friends gathered to relive memories and catch up on life since graduation.

For many, the most rewarding aspect of the evening was the opportunity to stay connected. Councilmember Linda Budge emphasized the significance of the event for the school’s community.

Alumni and current students alike filled the stands for the homecoming game. Photo by Ornella Rossi

“Many alumni still live in the area and they want to stay involved in their school’s tradition,” Budge said. “It’s about loyalty, school spirit, and community. Events like these help maintain that bond for generations.”

Head cheer coach Mckynz Jackson also reflected on the importance of honoring the tradition.

“We wanted to make this homecoming extra special for the alumni,” Jackson said. “Our girls believe in ‘once a Lancer, always a Lancer,’ and you can really see that in their performances.”

Dennis Trainor, a member of Cordova’s first graduating Class in 1965, summed up the evening’s sentiment.

 “When we started here, there was nothing,” Trainor said. “We helped build this school and it’s wonderful to see how far it has come. The camaraderie today reminds me of how proud I am to be part of this school.”