“Cougar Nation” had something to celebrate this weekend, as the John F. Kennedy High School football team emerged victorious at the big Homecoming game after what school officials called a fun-filled Spirit Week.

Before the “Friday Night Lights” sporting events, including a girls’ soccer game and the football matchup on Oct. 12, students took part in Spirit Week theme days. Principal Lorraine Poppe said participation was high on Pajama Day, Class Color Day, Costume Day and at Friday’s Cougar Nation events, which included a pep rally, festival and bonfire.

Spirit Week and Homecoming involved students, staff, parents and alumni, Poppe said.

“It was a true team effort and a fun-filled week for the Cougars,” she said. “ Students and staff embraced all of the activities to enhance school spirit.”

After cheering at the pep rally, playing carnival games at the festival and watching the bonfire burn, the Kennedy community saw the Cougars topple the Herricks High School football team 27-0.

The shutout victory featured standout performances by Kennedy’s Ralph Faiella, who recovered a fumble in the first quarter and intercepted a pass in the second half. Michael McCormick also contributed on defense with six pass deflections. On offense, Tom Ferner ran for two of Kennedy’s touchdowns.

Poppe said the night football game would not have been possible without the help of Bellmore JFK Alumni, Inc. The group was able to get local government agencies to donate the lights used on the school’s field.