The Class of 2026 performed its “Pokemon” themed skit on Tuesday, Sept. 26. The story followed main characters Ash Ketchum and Pikachu, played by sophomores Lauren Moore and Charmaine Chua, respectively, as they try to find out who hacked the MVHS football team’s Homecoming playbook. After consulting trusted Professor Oak, played by Assistant Principal Mike White, they are introduced to Snorlax, played by sophomore Ryan Li, a common Pokemon character. Unconvinced of what Snorlax can do, Snorlax is forced to showcase his power, which kicks off the co-ed dance.
Having practiced only three weeks in advance, the co-ed dancers had a sense of uncertainty leading up to the final performance. Sophomore and co-ed dancer Aadit Singh noted that many dancers chose to drop out of this dance, which made organizing it challenging and resulted in the group having to learn two different routines. However, Singh says the setbacks are an inherent part of the Homecoming process, and the challenges only make the end result more satisfying.
“This [was my] first year [participating in] Homecoming,” Singh said. “It was a wonderful experience getting to know others better and I think it is really cool being able to look back upon these times and say that I participated in co-ed dance in 10th grade.”
Finally accepting Snorlax’s help, Ash, Pikachu and Snorlax find out that Team Rocket, the recurring Pokemon antagonist, was the one who hacked their playbook. In retaliation, they order the crowd to collect berries and attack Team Rocket, signaling the beginning of the girls’ dance.
The girls began practicing choreography during the summer. Sophomore and co-choreographer Megan Liu says they faced challenges throughout preparation, including the group’s music being unapproved a mere two weeks before Homecoming. Despite these setbacks, Liu says it brought the group together, attributing the success of the girl’s dance to the strength of the team.
“I’m [just] super happy that we reached a consensus and could perform like we did today,” Liu said. “I’m [so] thankful for all of my teammates because we [really] pulled through and did really [well] on the final performance.”
Finally defeating Team Rocket, the Class of 2026’s performance concludes with Ash and Pikachu inviting the crowd to the Homecoming Football game. Liu believes that Homecoming is an important event, as it allows classes to connect and form closer ties with one another.
“We [often aren’t] very spirited,” Liu said. “[But I think] Homecoming gives us [the opportunity] to come together [by] performing something, [and] I am just [so] thankful for that.”
