Stay classy. Something easier said than done. Lately, the South Lakes and Herndon rivalry has escalated to a new level. This by no means gives students the right to act maliciously toward any Herndon student or faculty member.

The concept of school rivalry exists to enforce the idea of healthy, friendly competition. Acts such as ruining school property, physically harming another student, or acting in any way malicious is not just prohibited, but downright immature.

However, this does not mean students cannot be passionate during the game. Senior football captain Alex Woodward hopes for a loud and present Hype Squad.

“We are preparing just like any other game, but I know emotions will run high when we step on the field,” Woodward said. “We hope that students will be wild throughout the game to give us an advantage.”

Senior football captain Marc Harrison advises students to behave properly at the game.

“We’ll handle Herndon on the field, the people in the stands only need to worry about being hyped,” Harrison said.

Senior class president Logan Nasr also feels the importance lies in being more hyped than Herndon rather than taking anger out any other way.

“Everybody should be fired up as this is the most hyped game of the year,” Nasr said. “This is our grudge match, but at South Lakes we keep things classy. We’re there to have fun and get our team pumped for the big win, and that’s what we will do in the loudest way possible.”

Be hyped at the game this Friday, but be mindful that security will be tight. Do not jeopardize your high school experience over a mere high school rivalry.