School Spirit Shines at GSB’s Annual Family Day & Homecoming

Hundreds of GSB community members gathered across campus on Saturday, Sept. 19 for the annual Family Day & Homecoming. 

The family-friendly event is one of GSB’s traditions and was filled with athletic events, a performance by the Upper School choir, a catered lunch buffet by Sage Dining Services and activities including pumpkin decorating, cornhole, tug of war, balloon art, an inflatable obstacle course the length of the Field House, and a dunk tank braved by GSB community members, including Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins.

“It sets an amazing tone for the rest of the year,” said Parents’ Association President Mindy Miller Chidgey P’29. “There’s something for everyone.”

The day kicked off with a lineup of GSB athletic events in cross country, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. Referee whistles and chants of “go blue” echoed across campus as the community cheered on fall athletes.

The event brought families across divisions, alumni, and faculty together for a day of fun and school spirit, an energy that could be felt across campus.

“I think it shows we are a community that is strong and supportive,” said Booster Club Co-President Gretchen Keller P’26 ’29.”

It’s bringing everyone together,” added GSB Booster Club Co-President Angela DeRocco P’27 ’29 ’33.

In addition to a range of athletic events and activities, visitors had the chance to purchase GSB merchandise at the Booster Club’s swag tables stacked with blue and white t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, mugs, bags, and more. 

Nearby, members of the Upper School ran game booths, including face painting and a cotton candy table. Home Winds Farm Manager Ned Lincoln and his team set up a table with freshly-harvested produce, including vegetables and eggs, adjacent to a small pen of sheep.

“It’s a wonderful celebration for our community of families,” said Parents’ Association Vice President of Community Events Moyra Knight P’27.

Family Day & Homecoming followed the momentum built by Spirit Cup Day, the Pep Rally, and decoration of Founders Hall with GSB colors.

Family Day & Homecoming Athletics Recap:

Boys' Soccer

• The Varsity Boys’ Soccer team defeated Ridge High School 2–0. 
• The JV Boys’ Soccer team lost 2–0 against Ridge High School. 
• The Middle School Boys Soccer team defeated Wardlaw Hartridge 6–1.

Girls’ Soccer

• The Varsity Girls’ Soccer team defeated #4 ranked Immaculate Heart Academy 3–1. The Knights are now ranked #9 in nj.com’s “Top 20” girls’ soccer teams.
• The Middle School Girls’ Soccer team had an intersquad scrimmage on the turf.

Girls’ Volleyball

• The Varsity and JV Girls’ Volleyball teams lost to Delaware Valley.

Girls’ Tennis

• The Varsity and JV Girls’ Tennis team played a few sets on the tennis courts.
• The Middle School Girls' Tennis team defeated Wardlaw Hartridge 7-0, with every member of the team playing a set.

Cross Country

• Middle School Cross Country had a very close race with Wardlaw-Hartridge. Jack P. ’32 and Vincente N. ’31 finished 1st and 2nd respectively in the boys' race. Izzy B. ’32 finished 1st for GSB in the girl's race and 2nd overall.  Nearly the entire team had PR's since their time trial on Sept. 10.