The Quakertown High School Panther Football team was originally scheduled to play its 2025 Homecoming game Friday against Cheltenham High School. However, following Cheltenham’s decision to end its football season early amid allegations of hazing, Quakertown found itself without an opponent just days before one of the most anticipated events of the year.
The unexpected cancellation left the Panthers and the entire Quakertown community wondering if their long-standing Homecoming traditions could continue as planned. For seniors in the Class of 2026, this night represents far more than a football game — it is a milestone that marks years of dedication, school pride, and shared memories with classmates, teammates, and families.
Determined to ensure that this experience would not be taken from them, Quakertown’s Athletic and Activities Director Brian Liacona immediately began working to find a solution. What followed was a fast-paced effort involving dozens of phone calls to neighboring districts in hopes of securing a last-minute matchup.
“COVID took so many things away from our students,” said Liacona. “There’s no way I was going to let this take away Homecoming for our seniors. They’ve worked too hard and waited too long for this moment.”
That determination paid off. On Tuesday morning, Liacona received confirmation that the Chester High School Clippers will travel to Quakertown to take on the Panthers this Friday at 7 p.m. at Alumni Field.
With this new matchup secured, the 2025 Homecoming game — and all the celebrations surrounding it — will go on as planned. The Quakertown Community School District extends its gratitude to Chester High School for stepping up on short notice and helping make this special night possible for the students, staff, and families of Quakertown.
“Homecoming is about community, tradition, and pride,” said Liacona. “It’s a night our seniors will remember for the rest of their lives—and we’re thrilled that we get to make it happen.”
