Windermere High confirms stadium opening game, ceremony following Hurricane Helene

In a message to the Windermere High community, Principal Andrew Leftakis confirms the ribbon-cutting ceremony and home opener of the Wolverines' brand-new, on-campus stadium Friday, Sept. 27. 

"I hope everyone is safe following the passing of Helene," said Leftakis. "I'm happy to report that Windermere is up and running with power, internet and phones. Additionally, there were no major obstructions on 535 leading into the school. As such, we will operate as normal today. ... Weather permitting, we will kick off a new (era) of Windermere Athletics tonight, as we open our on-campus stadium! It's been a long road, but we're excited for tonight." 

The undefeated Windermere High football team will host the Lake Buena Vista Vipers for the Wolverines' homecoming game. The ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 6:30 p.m. and kickoff is at 7 p.m. There is also a performance by the Windermere Wolverettes dance team scheduled for pregame. At the half, the Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned and the Fighting Wolverine Band will perform. Coming out of the half, at the start of the third quarter, there will be a crowd singalong of "Mr. Brightside."

Because this is the first-ever football game at the school's campus, Leftakis passed along important logistical information for those planning on attending tonight's historic game. 

"Spectator parking and student drop-off will take place in the main student parking lot," he said. "Parking is $5 and can be pre-purchased at gofan.co. The bus loop will be used for visiting team buses, cheer/dance, officials, staff working the game, etc. There is no student drop-off or spectator parking in the bus loop as we need to minimize traffic through this area for pedestrian safety."

Leftakis also wants to remind those attending of the school's safety protocols for the game. 

"Backpacks, large bags, weapons of any kind, artificial noise makers, and outside drinks are prohibited," he said. "Additionally, there is no re-entry once inside the stadium, so please plan accordingly when parking. We ask that students refrain from bringing baby powder and body paint as these items can damage our facility. Finally, only authorized individuals are allowed to access the track and playing field. Anyone who tries to access the playing perimeter will be escorted out of the stadium. I will alert the community should there be any changes to this plan."