Part of Kearny High School’s charm and school spirit comes from our vibrant traditions. Powderpuff is a tradition that many high schools and colleges participate in, including Kearny High School. The game consists of girls playing flag football, while the boys can sign up to be cheerleaders. The girls team is coached by representatives from the varsity KHS football team, while the boys are mentored by representatives from the varsity KHS cheerleading squad.
Here at Kearny High School the game is played with juniors versus seniors, a true battle of the upperclassmen. This tradition is especially beloved to our seniors, who love to put themselves out there and show school spirit during their final year here at KHS. Students from all grade levels are encouraged to support by purchasing their ticket and attending the game. While the game goes on, there are tunes played by the KHS marching band to keep the energy flowing. We had our 2025 Powderpuff game at the KHS stadium on November 20. Although freezing, as Senior player Adrianna Soriano reported, the students were not hindered by the low temperature. Some notable players include Mariel Ruiz and Niamh Devlin, who both scored points for the senior team. Their performance in the game had a significant impact on the morale of the team, as well as the game’s outcome.
The junior boys cheerleaders were a crowd favorite with notable cheerleaders being Kaden Santos and Lucas Vazquez performing stunts such as cart wheels. The rivalry and taunting between the junior and senior cheerleaders brought a fun atmosphere to the stadium. At the end of the first quarter, the score was 8-6 with the seniors winning. The juniors made a comeback by winning the game with a final score of 14-18.
After the winning class was declared, all of the participants broke out in a lighthearted and humorous brawl of baby powder, which is where the name “Powderpuff” comes from. It was a great time for all those who participated in and attended the game, and we hope to see even more energy next year.