Homecoming week has arrived at Riverdale Academy, with several activities planned to bring students, families and alumni together before the Rebels take the field Friday night.

The celebration gets into full swing Thursday, October 8, with the Homecoming Pep Rally beginning at 1:30 p.m. Students and supporters will have an opportunity to show their Rebel spirit as excitement builds for Friday night’s game.

Thursday evening, students will trade the traditional football lineup for a little friendly competition during the Powderpuff Game at 6 p.m.

Homecoming festivities continue Friday, October 9, with a special welcome for former Riverdale students. The school is inviting alumni from the Classes of 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016 to return for an Alumni Reception beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Alumni will have an opportunity to reconnect with classmates, visit classrooms and enjoy refreshments in the lounge. At 5:45 p.m., Dr. Brown will meet with alumni in the auditorium.

The evening then turns to one of Homecoming’s biggest traditions with the Homecoming Court presentation at 6 p.m.

Abbie Jowers has been selected as Riverdale Academy’s 2026 Homecoming Queen. Joining her on the court are Freshman Maid Kylie Phillips, Sophomore Maid Addi Nettles, Junior Maid Lexi Pearah and Senior Maid Allie Murphy. Krista Mancil will serve as Football Sweetheart, with Slate Woodard as Ball Bearer and Ashtyn Culpepper as Crown Bearer.

Following the court presentation, the celebration moves to the football field as the Riverdale Rebels host Briarfield Academy at 7 p.m. for the 2026 Homecoming game.

This year’s celebration will also be a special one for five generations of reunion classes. From the Class of 1976 through the Class of 2016, former Rebels will have an opportunity to return to campus, share memories and reconnect with the school and friendships that have remained part of their lives long after graduation.

With a pep rally, Powderpuff game, alumni reunion, Homecoming Court presentation and Friday night football, Riverdale Academy’s Homecoming Week will offer plenty of opportunities for the Rebel family to come together and celebrate school spirit and tradition.

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