Story by Emily Jimenez & Leo Walters * Photos by Olivia Moran

The annual Powderpuff football game returned to Thurgood Marshall Secondary on Wednesday, Oct. 29, bringing roaring crowds, school spirit, and a fierce rivalry between the junior and senior girls. After last year’s stunning upset, when the Class of 2026 juniors claimed victory over the seniors, this year’s juniors hoped to repeat history. But the Class of 2026 seniors had other plans. In an action-packed matchup, the seniors came out strong and never looked back, earning a dominant 36–0 win.

Players Danica Dinh and Ava Desiongco led the Senior team to victory with exceptional performances. 

“Powderpuff is always one of the most hyped events of the year, with the adrenaline, the touchdowns, and the junior-senior rivalry. Getting to play running back has honestly been a highlight of high school. Winning twice was also unexpected and super special, but what I loved most was how it brought so many of us closer in a way no other event really does,” Dinh said. 

“Our offense was just dominating all game,” senior coach Nate Nicoletti said.

The stands were packed with students, teachers, parents, and friends, creating one of the most energetic atmospheres of the year. The Powderpuff game, often called Marshall’s biggest event, took place during a busy week that also included Spirit Week, Halloween celebrations, Homecoming preparations, a Food Faire, multiple high stakes sports matches, and a pep rally. Thanks to careful planning from ASB student leaders, everything went off with no complications.

Throughout the game, the junior and senior boys dance teams kept the crowd excited with entertaining cheers and daring halftime performances. Both sides showed incredible energy and school pride, with the seniors displaying good sportsmanship after securing their well-earned victory.

“Powderpuff was a really fun experience and I’m super grateful to have been able to participate and grow closer with my class. And although the score wasn’t exactly what we wanted, we still have next year!” said Junior Livsey Teems after the game.

With another exciting Powderpuff in the books, the Class of 2026 walks away with bragging rights, and the juniors are already looking ahead to next year’s rematch.