BayToday Picture Play Gallery: 50 years of Raider spirit

Laurie Ypya gets wrapped up by Reynolds (Lisa) and Serran (Jeff).

Overwhelming, amazing and outstanding were just a few of the words used to describe the homecoming at Memorial Gardens Friday that was 50 years in the making.

Screams of delight were heard from every corner of the building as Chippewa Raiders reacquainted with old friends, teachers and staff.

Event chair/current faculty member/alumnus Brian Risk says the turnout was beyond his wildest expectations.

“Tonight the turnout has been great, the attitude is great and everybody is so excited … just a huge tribute to the school and a wonderful success.”

Risk says the committee stayed away from the negative aspect of the Accommodations Review Committee recommendations when planning the event but he says Raiders have a way of digging deep and making a stand when it comes to the school.

“We wanted to stay away from the political angle, but when people heard the news they jumped on board,” says.

“And that is just the way Raiders have been, they have been a very passionate student body always and they recognise okay it’s tough times, let’s dig in, let’s come back, let’s support them and it’s been really overwhelming.”

“It really puts us in a great position and gives us great momentum,” he adds.

Risk said heading into the rest of the weekend he just has no idea what will unfold.

“I think we are going to see a lot of emotional people at the school tomorrow (Saturday) they walk in and the memories flood back.”

“Being in the halls and seeing all the heritage exhibits I think it’s going to be a very emotional experience for lots of people and just a wonderful time.”

The event wraps up Sunday with a pancake breakfast at the school 7am to 11am.