On the night of Nov. 7, nearly 40 seniors celebrated their last season in football, cheer, or band. The celebration kicked off with the varsity football game against Albemarle, which ended with a final score of 48-20, securing another win for Fluvanna. The seniors were recognized on the field during halftime.
“We celebrated 14 incredible seniors who have filled our gym and sidelines with spirit, leadership, and heart. Many of them began this journey years ago in gymnastics or all-stars, and I’ve had the honor of watching them grow from little girls with big dreams into strong, confident young women,” said FCHS cheer coach Kirsen Pillow. “The class of ’26 holds a special place in my heart–my first group to coach from freshman year to senior night. Their legacy will be felt for years to come, and though they leave big shoes to fill, I’m grateful for the next generation ready to carry on their spirit,” she added.
Losing so many seniors to graduation in 2026, the cheer team will have a rebuilding process, but Coach Pillow said she isn’t worried about rebuilding with the help of the middle school cheer program.
“I’m so thankful for our middle school feeder program, which continues to bring us talented, hard-working athletes. Thanks to dedicated coaches and early skill development, many of our athletes enter high school with a solid foundation, leadership qualities, and a love for the sport. Their preparation ensures the continued success and tradition of excellence within Fluvanna Cheer,” Pillow said.
As for football, this season, varsity went 7-3 and earned its first official spot in the playoffs since 2023. The team’s first round of the playoffs was hosted at Wilson Memorial, which ended with a score of 41-29, setting the Flucos in motion for victory.
Head Coach Mitchell Pace said senior night is always an emotional night for him. But he said he appreciates how the class of 2026 helped turn the football team around for good and made a huge impact on his own coaching career.
“You work with these young men, closely and in intense situations…that builds bonds,” said Pace. “To see them reach their last moments in a Fluco uniform can be a wonderful and tough thing. And this year it’s even more difficult. Some of these young men have played directly for me for six or more years, so there are many memories, good times and bad, and everything in between. We have 17 seniors this year, and they all will be missed deeply by our football program,” he said.
Finally, the marching band and color guard had eight seniors this season.
“Senior night for me was great. I had a blast getting hyped up with everyone in the band and playing our newest stand tunes,” said senior and band member Cadence Goodnight.
