PHOTOS: Olympia band and cheer return to the sidelines

Cheer teams, bands and JROTC members across Orange County made their return to Friday Night Lights last week for the first time this season.

Before the season began, Orange County Public Schools announced it would not allow cheer, band and JROTC to participate during the football season because of health concerns regarding COVID-19. However, the district relented, and as of Friday, Sept. 25, those students are now allowed to bring the excitement back to the sidelines and stands.

Olympia High School was the only OCPS team in the Observer’s coverage area at home on Friday. Cheerleaders led the crowd in chants, while the band — situated in its usual spot in the end zone — played and chanted on its Titans to a season-opening win against Gateway.