Large crowd attends pep rally

Pioneer football fans had the chance to give their team a great send-off for the 2002 season last night, with a downtown pep rally on the Courthouse square.

Varsity head coach Gerald Tidwell, along with assistants John Dryden, Matt Turner and Chris Madewell, addressed the crowd of supporters and well-wishers at the event, which was emceed by Central Church of Christ youth minister Matt Winkler.

Following the introduction of this year’s varsity players, last night’s festivities included a speech by lineman Greg Cotten — who, along with teammate Cole Langford, taught the downtown crowd a Pioneer cheer — as well as performances by the WCHS band and cheerleaders.

This year’s Warren County freshman team and coaching staff and their cheerleaders were also introduced, as was the Warren County Middle School squad.

Youth football also got a chance to join in the evening’s events, as players and cheerleaders from the Pioneer Youth Football League and the Traveling Titans were recognized.

The evening concluded with performances from the WCHS Pioneerette Dance Team, and the crowd got into the football spirit by watching the Denzel Washington film “Remember the Titans.”

PHOTO INFO:
Clockwise from top left: Coach Gerald Tidwell speaks to the crowd at Thursday’s pep rally; “Pioneer Jake” and his partner, Joyce Britton, hand out balloons to the youngsters on hand; Matt Broadrick receives a high-five as he’s introduced to the crowd; trumpet soloist Tiffany Yancy, center, keeps the crowd entertained. with the WCHS band; cheerleader Chelsea O’Kelley performs with her squad. (Rob Nunley photos)