Homecoming is a spirit-filled week that allows students to welcome back alumni and celebrate the start of a new academic year. At Chaska High School, the week is packed with exciting events on campus. Highlights include a parade, football game and dance. Since 2004, another event has added an extra spark of intra-class competition: the Powder Puff football game.
Led and organized by Chaska DECA, the event features girls from each class competing in flag football matchups: freshmen versus sophomores and juniors versus seniors. Each team is coached by members of their class’s football team.
“Teams only get a couple of practices before the game, so they are learning as they go. Some of the upperclassmen have a bit more experience, having maybe done this before,” said DECA Club advisor Jeff Rydland.
With a loud and enthusiastic crowd, the freshmen and sophomores faced off in the first game. The freshmen struck first, but the sophomores answered with two touchdowns of their own. With most teams opting to run for extra points, the sophomores came out on top, 14–8.
After a spirited and humorous halftime show featuring senior football players dancing with the Dance Team, the juniors and seniors took the field. Much like the first game, both teams scored early. In the end, the seniors held on for a 16–8 victory.
Sideline conversations reflected the playful spirit of the event: coaches working hard to explain plays, players processing strategies on the fly and plenty of moments that worked, along with a few that didn’t. The night proved to be a joy for all involved and set the perfect tone for the rest of Chaska’s homecoming week.
“This game is a great way for us to let people know about DECA and what we do. We encourage all students to come check us out. We are a business-focused club, but I’ve learned so many great skills like making presentations, being on time, and meeting people on a professional basis. In my three years with the club, I have had a great opportunity to grow,” said current Chaska DECA president, senior Sophia Bixler.
“Being in charge of this event is an example of a way to learn about business. You have to meet with people, schedule, get funding, etc. It’s a great way to learn those skills and it’s a lot of fun, said senior Bridger Kolesar, DECA VP for events, who organized the event.
Chaska DECA has activities throughout the year, including the Hawk Haul in October, which helps stock local food banks heading into the holiday season. More information will be shared with students in the coming weeks.
