For the first time, the Mercy Marlins and University of Detroit (U of D) Cubs gathered together for a homecoming spirit game.  Friday’s game, held at Hazel Park High School, featured a “white-out,” theme with the Marlins and Cubs going all out with white face paint, bandannas, and costumes.

Both student councils worked hard to organize this event and were pleasantly surprised with the turnout. An estimated 400 students from both schools were in attendance, along with parents and other spectators.

“We definitely didn’t expect that many girls to show up,” said U of D School Class President Matthew Toma. “Both schools mixed well and the student section was great!”

Mercy Class President Ciara Lopus agrees. “It was more than any of us could have hoped for,” said Lopus. “I hope that future years will carry on this tradition because I think it showed great school unity and gave us Mercy girls an experience we never would have had.”

The night began with a tailgate in the parking lot, where hot dogs, chips, and gatorade were available. With the U of D Marching Band, an outstanding pom performance at halftime, and a 56-8 win for the Cubs, the night was a grand success.

“My favorite part of the night was first walking up to the tailgate and seeing the huge crowd of people,” said U of D School Secretary Ian Mulhern. “Only three weeks ago was this idea introduced, and here I was witnessing what our councils had done together. It was awesome.”

The after-school meetings, phone calls, and planning were well worth it. The officers from Mercy are excited to host more events and start even more traditions.

“My goal at the start of this year was to start a tradition,” said Lopus. “Now I just want to leave as many traditions as I can. I want everybody… to look back and remember the times they spent here at Mercy with a smile.”

“It was a great turnout,” said Mrs. Eleasha Tarplin, Mercy’s Dean of Student Affairs. “Mercy girls cheered for the football team and U of D boys cheered for the pom team. It really was a great night.”

Check out the video below, which includes footage and photos from Friday night’s event! Fear the Fish and go Cubs!