It has been a week full of homecoming fun and festivities at Nederland Middle Senior High School (NMSHS).

Each day of the week had a different theme for the students to dress up and show school spirit. The girls volleyball teams played this week. There was a powderpuff game, pep assembly and Panther Spirit Day on Friday.

On Saturday, October 2, there was a Homecoming Parade in Nederland. The energy from the students was contagious! Since homecoming events could not happen last year this one was extra exciting.

After the parade the NMSHS PTA had a lunch of hamburgers, hot dogs and sides ready for all who wanted to have a bite to eat before the Homecoming soccer game.

Nederland High School’s Boys Soccer Team played Union Colony from Greeley in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The cheers were loud and Panther proud when in the first half senior Zach Weiner scored a goal. Then in the second half junior Max Godsil scored a stunning goal. The game ended with a score of 2-0 with the home team winning.

Coach Gonzalez continues to build a fantastic soccer program at Nederland High School. He says, “If you want to have success you need to work hard. This team is incredible. They work really hard, and with a great attitude. It is my pleasure and my honor to work with them everyday.”

He says that they play as a team and they think like a team. They come to practice with a smile and are always looking for ways to improve. Coach Gonzalez is very proud of this team.

Halftime during the soccer game the time honored tradition of Homecoming royalty was announced. Although it was more Ned-style; nothing formal. Each high school class chose two people to represent their class. The people chosen were: Freshmen - Kendall Zotti and Lukey Mahorski-Bodley, Sophomores - Trinity LeBlanc and Glen Kress, Juniors - Annabel Ivey and Mason Lupe, Seniors - Ivy Brundege and Rowan Harper.

Homecoming Week 2021 for the Panthers ended with a school dance.

It was great to see the Nederland Panthers spirit so enthusiastic and alive during Homecoming Week. This could be felt through the students and staff, through the parents and even the people in town watching the parade.

Nederland schools fall into the small school category. Small schools have an enormous amount of potential. They also need a community that supports them. Pay attention to what these amazing students and staff are doing. Schools are one of the factors that keep communities strong and thriving.

Congratulations Panthers on a fun and successful Homecoming Week 2021