November 20th marked the first night rally of Fontana High School. As the news of the night rally spread amongst the students there were debates about whether it was worthwhile. With this in mind, let’s get into the breakdown of FOHI’s SpongeBob Rally, and you can say for yourself.
Gates to the school open at 6:45 pm, as students rendezvous with their friends and scutter to the gymnasium doors. Students had to check-in with their 5-Star and receive their glow sticks. The moment I stepped in, I was shocked to see that only half of the gymnasium bleachers were filled up—the top bleachers were completely empty. But then again, all 2,000 students would not have shown up voluntarily. Speaking of voluntary, about a quarter of students who did show up came for the extra credit that teachers provided.
The somewhat empty gymnasium at night was sort of an eerie, yet comfortable feel. I guess it was because the atmosphere was familiar, but strange to be at... at night. But other than that, the pre-rally music provided a time for seniors and underclassmen alike to bond and make memories. It was a pleasant surprise for ASB to provide the crowd with music that students actually like.
The SpongeBob rally was initiated with—yes, you guessed it—a segment of Mr. Sindelar’s spiel. This rally’s emcees were Andrew and David—who is apparently an alumni? They briefed the crowds of what’s to come: games and performances. And first up, was FOHI’s Dance team. I was surprised to see so many of them. Overall, the song and dance were well received—even if some dancers appeared unconfident.
Provided by @fohi_dance_team
The next segment was the “Jellyfish game”. The activity consisted of 6 players in all, split into 3 players per team. One person per team would stand on the opposite side and hold a bucket. The other two players would have to spin around 5 times and throw balls into the bucket within a time restraint, and whichever team has the most balls caught, wins.
Next up was a video straight from the Chum Bucket: a Teacher Prank Video. Some kids were feeling devious to pull a Plankton on Fohi staff, because I don’t think they made it out of the principal’s office alive. Frankly, the video was quite random and disrupted the flow of the show, but of course, it received good reactions from the crowd.
Up next was Fohi’s Folklorico, featuring... pineapples! What was refreshing was that the dancers wore summery dresses, and props to them because the night was cold! As per usual, their performance was crowd-pleasing.
Next, a video segment dedicated to Fohi’s College App Day. This year’s seniors achieved a total of 2,600 applications. Great job class of 2025!
Following the heart-felt moment, was a game of Basketball...but with a twist! Teams were split into 2 players, with one on the ledge of the gym balcony—who throws the ball—while the other player down below held a “basket”. It was certainly a game, but considering how dark the gym was, I couldn’t really tell what was going on.
After the game there was a giveaway session! Unfortunately, ASB didn’t give out the Secret Krabby Patty Formula but it’s okay, because they gave out hoodies and Krabby Patty gummies and candies.
And next was yet another segment of—the man, the myth, the legend—Sindelar’s motivation speeches, that yet touched the hearts of all Fohi students. Fortunately, the crowd was unusually energetic, and so the gym was filled with high spirits.
Subsequently, there was a game of “Pop the Balloon”. The game consists of about 10 people. It was basically an alternative to catch-the-flag, but the “flag” was a balloon tied to the players’ ankles.
Following this was the traditional moshing, but it felt more welcoming, and less pressuring as there were fewer people. Apparently 400 students participated in the rally, and almost all the participants joined the mini-party—in the middle of the gym. It was quite refreshing to think how the lights were off, and it was nighttime outside—felt like a real party. Almost.
Last but not least, The mosh pit turned into a crowd anticipating the anticipated news of “someone might get slimmed”. And guess who got slimmed? Drum roll... Mr. Sindelar! Everyone surely got a hoot out of that!
Before we knew it, the rally came to a close with the Alma mater. And thus, concluded Fontana High School’s first—and last(?) —Night Rally. Overall, the rally was a rather memorable rally with lots to see and lots to participate in. It was a rather comfortable atmosphere because there weren’t many people and the people who were there were invested and anticipating. So, next time there’s another oddball rally, grab a friend and join in!