The Friday night lights in Leopold shone a little brighter this past weekend as Perry Central Jr-Sr High crowned its 2025 Homecoming King and Queen during halftime of the varsity football game against Paoli. The stands were packed on Saturday, September 13, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m., and the energy carried into halftime as the student body cheered on classmates who had been nominated earlier this month.

Classmates voted to select the court, and the final student body ballot determined the winners. When the moment came, seniors Nash Weyer and Hope Kellems were crowned King and Queen to loud applause from family, friends, and alumni filling the bleachers. The ceremony was streamed live on Hudl, ensuring that even those who couldn’t attend in person shared in the celebration. “It’s not just about football, it’s about tradition,” said one parent after the game. “These kids grow up together, and Homecoming is where the whole community comes back to cheer them on.” The game itself added to the excitement, but for many the highlight was seeing Perry Central’s spirit on full display.

The announcement of the royal pair capped off a week of pep rallies, hallway decorations, and class competitions that brought students and staff closer together. For seniors like Weyer and Kellems, the crowns are more than titles—they’re reminders of the connections that make Perry Central special. “It felt unreal to hear my name,” Kellems said afterward. “I’ll never forget this night.” As Perry County faces its share of challenges, moments like these remind residents of the strength found in community and tradition.

From football fields to fall festivals, the county’s heartbeat is often clearest when its youth take center stage. The Homecoming Court may change each year, but the spirit of Perry Central remains constant—a legacy of pride, friendship, and small-town magic.