Kecoughtan High School - Tomahawk Yearbook (Hampton, VA)

Page 9 text:

gets an early boost T he early distribution of an award winning annual, a renewed spirit of competition between classes, and the defeat of long-time rival Hampton High School in football were powerful in¬ centives for students to “Keep Spirit Alive in ’85.” Since annuals were customarily re¬ ceived in late October or November, the early distribution date, August 18, 1984, and the theme, “Best All Around,” were significant boosts to school spirit. Excite¬ ment over the yearbook intensified as stu¬ dents raved over the pages of the 1984 TOMAHAWK that won a first place rating from Virginia High School League. “Keeping Spirit Alive in ’85” was a for¬ midable task. A ruling, passed by the State Board of Education in 1984, stipu¬ lated that students would not be permit¬ ted to participate in extra-curricular activi¬ ties until they had attended school for at least five and one half hours. This mea¬ sure not only affected student organiza¬ tions, but also reduced the number and length of pep rallies. Stricter graduation requirements and the abolition of Senior Skip also put a damper on school spirit. In spite of these obstacles, students showed their vitality and support for the school by plastering the halls with posters and class signs. The student body seemed revitalized and a revival of the intense competition among classes, indicative of the ’60’s, was evident. Moreover, the Warrior tradition of excellence in academics, sports, and all areas of student life prevailed, despite a difficult year ahead. Enjoying the midday sun, Yvette Olvera, Diana Diaz, Dana Hatcher, and Kelly McElroy take a break for lunch. Opening

Page 8 text:

Toting her backpack and her copy of the 1984 TOMAHAWK, Kristen Heaphy flashes a big smile as she enters the band room. Taking a break from the strain of A. P. English, Tom Schafer finds time to sign a yearbook. New student Joe Davis and his mother, Gerda Gerber, look over his choice of classes in the guidance office on the first day of school.

Page 10 text:

m - a f vJO I e fun of it meiT! 1n ' u - s toes dug deeper in the sand and the fiery rays of July’s sun beat A, Jk down on bronze bodies, Ric O’Ca- sek blared, “Summer. It turns me upside-down. Summer, summer, summer. It’s like a merry-go-round.” Summer was in full swing. Wearing string bikinis and loud Bermuda swim trunks, we flocked to Grandview, Buckroe, and Virginia Beach. The beaches provided entertainment for those of us who were “water babies.” For adventure, we found swimming, surfing and sailing on the agenda. On a quiet day, sun bathing and people watching were the favorite activities for those not working or in summer school. “Surfing is the most exhilarating human experience. It’s not just a sport; it’s a religion,” declared senior Danny Bickett. Vacations were the highlights of the summer. Whether we went to exotic paradises, or the same old summer spot, we found vacations relaxing and fun. “The turquoise water and pink sands of Bermuda captured my attention this summer. I can’t wait for my next trip,” said senior Tracey Neale. After we had satisfied our hunger for sun, water and sand, Busch Gardens, King’s Dominion, and Waterside were a source of excitement. continued on page 8 Surf rat Darryl Brooks calls it a day after spending a summer afternoon surfing at Virginia Beach. Melissa Pokorny gets a congratulatory kiss from her mother following Governor’s School graduation ceremonies at Virginia Tech.