35. Homecoming and the Tiger

Each September, the Dalton community celebrates Dalton Athletics at Homecoming. Festivities kick off Friday night with high school volleyball games and a pep rally. Alumni and students cheer enthusiastically, led by mascot Ivan the Tiger. On Saturday, the action moves out to Randall’s Island with the Family Fun Day, JV and Varsity soccer and football games.

Each September, the Dalton community — alumni, parents, administrators, faculty, staff, coaches, athletes, and students — rallies to celebrate Dalton Athletics at Homecoming, two days of fun-filled events.

Festivities kick off Friday night with high school volleyball games and a pep rally. The stands are always packed with alumni and students cheering for Dalton’s teams, led by our mascot Ivan the Tiger. When Dalton’s Athletics Hall of Fame inductions take place, Alumni athletes’ stories illustrating how hard work, compromise, sacrifice, and dedication contributed to their achievements on the playing field inspire all.

Homecoming continues on Saturday: Younger students enjoy games and activities on Randall’s Island. Before the JV and Varsity soccer and football games, students and families can participate in age-appropriate races at the Fun Run. The younger ones jog around the field, while older children and adults challenge themselves in the 1 mile or 5K run.

One parent recalled, “When my 3rd-grade son missed the 1-mile race, [the coaches] encouraged him to run the 5K. He surprised everyone (especially himself) and finished…A Dalton girl gave up winning the race to pace herself with my son encouraging him to finish! My son recently ran a 10K to raise money for a Kenyan organization. He was first in the “14 and under” age range (he’s 9)…and proudly wore his Dalton hat! Thanks to you and to the mystery girl for your inspiration.”

Dalton’s Physical Education and Athletics Department “goes forth unafraid,” greatly valuing tradition, diversity, and goal-oriented experiences with a commitment that would make Helen Parkhurst proud!
—Teddy Frischling ’89, Director of Athletics and Director of Physical Education and Jim Armata, Physical Education Teacher and Athletics Coach