HOCO 2012 is in the books and with a rare shift in power: the Sophomores win the Spirit Stick in a shocking upset to the Class of 2013.  Unlike last year, where the events were spread out over the course of the week, Homecoming was two jam packed days of intense school spirit, along with some always entertaining class rivalry.  Starting out with the newly added energetic Opening Ceremonies, the classes, decked out in their class color were introduced by Mr. Pierson and the tune of the pep band led by Dr. Cicconi.  As an added bonus we got to see Mr. Phillips, Mr. Kranstover, and other faculty members show off their dance moves.  Later that day was the Queens’ Assembly where the Homecoming Queens were introduced and escorted one by one.  Congratulations to Arianna Garvin, the elected Queen, and all of the other candidates!  After the assembly the Seniors dominated the Juniors in Powderpuff football, but the most entertaining part of that game was the halftime show.  The Sophomores put on an amazing and hysterical dance routine mash up of the movie, Mean Girls, “Jingle Bell Rock” and other songs.  Later that night, students saw what spectacular musical talent we have here at the Pine, at the Playing for Change concert.  On Friday, students came to school in green and white showing their Panther pride.  The Sophomores then took construction in the morning and all that was left was the afternoon pep rally.  Stacey Gym rocked the whole time throughout performances from the Pep Band and Drum Line, the cheerleading squad, and the Hip Hop club.  After a series of “Minute to Win it” competitions and the famous “Class Scream” contest, the whole room anxiously waited for STUCO President Alyssa Leighton to announce who would be taking home the Spirit Stick.  After she reluctantly announced who won, the Class of 2015 stormed the court with joy.  Later that night your Pine Crest Panthers capped off an enthusiastic homecoming in front of a full house defeating John Carroll by a score of 31-21.