GRIFFITH — The Griffith Panthers lost their Panther Pride Night game to Lowell 42-14 on Sept. 5, though the Griffith spirit remained strong.
The annual Panther Pride Night was intended to celebrate the achievements of students, community and town. However, the main purpose of the event was to celebrate what it means to be a panther. Once the school year began, both GHS administration and the town of Griffith went hand in hand when organizing the event.
After school, GHS invited the class of 1975 to experience the performing arts of Griffith, 50 years later. This included a preview of Clue, the fall play; the student band; choir; and color guard team. Jenna Parker, GHS theater director, explained how she prepared her and her students for the alumni.
“We had very little time to prepare, as we just casted the show a week before. We had one rehearsal before we performed and had to modify our set and props to accommodate the story so it would make sense to our audience,” she said. The yearbook staff also sold Griffith yearbooks from 1975.
Fundraisers also took place at the football game. Whether it was the Pantherettes, theater or the Panther Press, the night raised money for the school and events.
As for the game itself, Lowell dominated Griffith, handing the Panthers their first loss of the season. Brian Jennings, GHS assistant principal, shared his favorite part of the night.
“My favorite part of the night was throwing T-shirts and the fireworks; it separates us from other places,” Jennings said.
Though Griffith fell on the field, the event still brought together the community and overall led to a successful night.
