What more could we ask for during a fall evening in October than a Homecoming Parade, Games, Vendors, Food, and a Bonfire at Valley High School in New Kensington as the inaugural event to an exciting Homecoming Weekend.
The Willie Thrower Homecoming Parade will take place on Thursday, October 3, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The route will begin at Fifth Avenue and Drey Street in Arnold, proceed past the Mayor’s Reviewing Stand, and end at Fifth Avenue and 10th Street in New Kensington.
The Willie Thrower Homecoming Festival and Senior Recognition Night, food vendors, games, and a Willie Thrower family tribute will immediately follow (6:00 – 9:30 p.m.) at Valley High School Memorial Stadium.
The festival ends with an exciting bonfire to top off the night!
The Fall Festival recognizes Valley’s 2024 Homecoming Court, Fall Sports, and features a tribute to Willie Thrower, who attended New Kensington High School (now called Valley High School); went on a 24-game winning streak in 1946 and 1947; and attended Michigan State, where in 1950, he became the first African American to play the quarterback position in the Big Ten Conference.
Three years later, Willie Thrower broke the NFL barrier and signed a contract with the Chicago Bears.
Today, he is lauded as the first Black Quarterback to play in the modern NFL and his high school alma mater recognizes his athletic contributions and leadership qualities each year during their Homecoming festivities.
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