GALT, CA (MPG) - Liberty Ranch High School wrapped up a memorable homecoming week with the crowning of Bailey Babcock and Derek Nelson as Homecoming queen and king, capping off festivities that brought the entire school community together in celebration.

The week’s events kicked off Monday evening with the traditional Powderpuff game, drawing over 100 student participants including royalty candidates, players and cheerleaders. The spirited competition served as an energetic launch to the week’s festivities, showcasing the school’s unity and Hawks pride.

“I was so surprised when I heard my name called,” said newly crowned Queen Bailey Babcock. “I want to thank everyone who voted for me and for all their support throughout this experience.”

 

Derek Nelson and Bailey Babcock were crowned Liberty Ranch king and queen.

King Derek Nelson shared similar sentiments about his selection.

“I was surprised and thrilled when I heard my name announced,” Nelson said. “It’s an honor to represent our school alongside Bailey.”

The traditional Powderpuff football competition provided plenty of excitement for spectators. The junior varsity matchup saw the freshmen edge out the sophomores in a closely contested game, while the varsity contest concluded with the juniors claiming victory over the seniors.

Activity Director Kellie Gorelick praised the week’s success and student participation.

“Homecoming week really showcases what makes Liberty Ranch special: our students’ enthusiasm, school spirit and the way our entire community comes together to celebrate,” Gorelick said. “Seeing over 100 students participate in just the Powderpuff game alone demonstrates the incredible Hawks pride we have here.”

 

The Class of 2029 float carries the freshmen.

The 2025 Homecoming Court represented the diverse talents and achievements across Liberty Ranch’s campus. Class representatives included Scarlett Babcock and Cody Robinson from the Class of 2029, Sam Folena and Aiden Mendoza representing 2028, Maritza Arevalo and Ryan Ogas from 2027, and Gustavo Velaquez and Triniti De Loach from the Class of 2026.

Various school organizations and activities were also represented in the royal court, highlighting the breadth of student involvement at Liberty Ranch. Academic programs were represented by Kelly Faul and Abby Woods from Academic Senate, Sofia Richardson and Haley Smith from National Honor Society, and Madilynn Tyler and Elis Suarez from AVID.

Athletic and performance groups showcased their school spirit through representatives including Bailey Alcoriza and Cole Maguire from Athletic Senate, Karlee Lexau James and Nicolas Ibanez Garcia from Band, and the Cheer squad’s Bailey Babcock and Hannah Abbott.

Cultural and special interest organizations added to the diverse representation, with Leslie Acosta and Sofia Alfaro from Latinos Unidos, Zia Ruppert and Jared Lindberg from FFA, and Derek Nelson and Avery Gregorio representing FLOCK.

 

The Top Ten royal court poses for a photo during homecoming.

Creative Arts were well-represented through Color Guard’s Natalie Smith and Tatianna Arriaga, Creative Writing’s Gwen Lindberg, and International Thespian Society’s Mikey Brixey, while specialized programs included Sports Medicine representatives Mikina McCreery and Ava Ramos.

The week’s festivities reinforced Liberty Ranch’s commitment to celebrating student achievement across all areas of school life, from academics and athletics to arts and community service. The successful homecoming celebration highlighted the strong school spirit and community bonds that define the Hawks’ identity.

As the homecoming week concluded, students, staff and families could look back on a celebration that truly embodied the Liberty Ranch motto of excellence in all endeavors, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the school year.