Energy was high and school spirit was on full display as the Frontier Central School District hosted its major outdoor varsity volleyball stadium game and back to school event, drawing more than 1,200 fans, students, local vendors and community members together on the school’s home turf.

The event showcased the district’s sports facilities while highlighting the strong connection between school programs and the surrounding community by bringing the boys and girls varsity volleyball teams outdoors.

“It’s a great day to be a Frontier Falcon,” said Frontier Athletic Director Jim Helmicki. “It’s just a great community event that brings our community and students together.”

Boys Varsity Head Coach and event organizer Nick Penberthy echoed those sentiments.

“It’s really all the moving parts and everyone working together to make this possible that really makes it a special event with a special feel,” Penberthy said. “The big Kids Zone has been full all day. Our vendors, our sponsors bringing out all the giveaways, is tremendous. We’ve got announcers and MCs in the background keeping the vibes alive. And it’s just a special experience for our student-athletes, but also everyone from the community that has shown up today.”

For the participating student-athletes, playing an indoor sport in front of an energized outdoor crowd created a memorable atmosphere.

“Everything was awesome, the energy, our team, everything," said Jackson Faust, a member of the boys varsity team. “I think it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I felt like a superstar.”

Brynn Leyh, a girls varsity player, agreed.

“I think the environment and the people and just the fans and the faculty that support us. I think it’s just such a cool experience because we get to be a part of this every year and I just think it’s so much fun to just be all together and to play this game.” Leyh said.

On the court, the host teams delivered strong performances. The Frontier boys varsity team earned a 3-0 sweep, followed by a thrilling 15-point tiebreaker set win by the girls varsity team to claim their match.

Organizers and coaches emphasized that investments in top-tier athletic facilities pay off beyond wins and losses by fostering school pride and student engagement.

“Frontier has really invested a lot of money into athletics because it helps give the school spirit, it helps give kids a reason to come to school, to stay motivated.” Penberthy said. “It’s just unreal. You can’t get this anywhere else.”

Check out our Video Here: 🎥Stadium Event