On Oct. 8, 2025, Plant High School hosted its annual Panther Prowl, a long-standing tradition dating back to the school’s early years. The event brings together service clubs, a ccapella groups and various dance teams to showcase their talents. Service clubs also compete for the coveted trophy for the best dance performance. This year’s theme was Haunted Halloween, mirroring the Homecoming theme.
The night began with the National Anthem, performed by Pawcappella, one of Plant’s a cappella groups. The Pink Panthers, another a cappella group at Plant, followed with a Britney Spears-themed performance.
The Danceros took the stage next, dressed in race car uniforms, delivering an energetic routine to pop songs such as Tate McRae’s “Sports Car,” Rihanna’s “Shut Up and Drive,” and Migos’ “Motorsport.”
Following the Danceros, the varsity cheerleading team performed a heartfelt High School Musical graduation-themed routine. Seniors wore graduation caps and gowns, with the cheerleading coach, Coach Vance handing out diplomas as part of the performance. The junior varsity cheerleading team followed with a powerful routine to Destiny’s Child’s “Survivor.”
Color Guard performed to Rihanna’s “Shut Up and Drive,” impressing the audience with their fiery-shaped flags and intricate choreography.
Despite technical difficulties, Pawcappella overcame challenges and received support from the crowd, who clapped along to their performance of CeeLo Green’s “Forget You.”
Teachers had their moment in the spotlight with a theatrical Thriller-inspired segment, fully dressed as zombies. The routine told the story of a curse that turned teachers into zombies, which was broken by performing Plant’s alma mater anthem.
Service clubs, including Kiwi, Sertoma, Zeta, Anchor and Key Club, competed for the best dance. Key Club performed a skit inspired by the popular Clash Royale video game, earning an enthusiastic reaction from the crowd, particularly the football team.
Sertoma won the competition with a mix of classic Halloween references, including “Ghostbusters” and a Michael Jackson impersonation.
Student Reflections
Students expressed their excitement and pride in participating in Panther Prowl.
“I was a hog rider, and I think we got a better crowd reaction this year. It was also more fun,” said Ben Gabriely, a junior.
“I was very proud of how our team performed, and we worked very hard on our skit. Shoutout to Thomas, aka Terry the green ghost!” said senior Nelson Maddux, the President of Sertoma.
“It was a great experience, and it’s great to do something out of my comfort zone,” said junior Ryan Pavliga. “My favorite part was Sertoma winning and the school camaraderie.”
“It was so, so awesome,” said senior Mia Derival. “It was fun singing aloud with the other performers and seeing all the talent that went into this school event. Personally, I showed up and showed out for the Step Team! We did so well!”
“I was part of Kiwi for Panther Prowl. This was my second year being involved in the dance, and it was so much fun,” said junior Brooke Cohen. “My favorite part was dressing up and seeing everyone having fun, no matter if they won or lost.”
Lastly, to end the night the shirt made sign in the letters ‘PHS’ was set on fire at the end of the event. Panther Prowl continues to unite Plant’s school community through creativity, teamwork and unforgettable memories, ensuring this beloved tradition remains an integral part of school spirit for years to come.
Caption: The Danceros perform a kick line during Panther Prowl. The event took place on Oct. 8, 2025, at Plant High School.