Standing on the field was torturous. It was loud but at the same time it felt as though nobody dared to exhale; everyone was restless with anticipation. Unfortunately, it wasn’t any better for homecoming candidate, Senior David To. For him, running for homecoming wasn’t just some random urge on a whim. For To, it meant carrying tradition.
For years, a male wrestler has always been crowned homecoming king for Cy Springs and To wasn’t about to break that streak. He poured time and energy into days of campaigning and promoting, and in the end, it was all worth it.
The second he heard his name announced on the field, joy and relief flooded into his system. He won homecoming court not only for himself, but for his team and everyone who supported him.
“Winning feels absolutely amazing,” To said. “It felt so surreal. Looking out and seeing the crowd cheering made the moment even more special and unforgettable.”
To said that being able to carry on the wrestling king legacy is what made his win even more meaningful.
“It feels incredible to continue the wrestling tradition,” To said. “The legacy was a huge motivator for me and now I hope I can help inspire and give confidence to the next wrestler who decides to run for Homecoming King.”
Now a major spotlight around the school, To plans on using his homecoming status to continue being a great leader and a stand-out role model influencing his peers.
“I believe it takes passion as well as determination to set a good example for others,” To said. “Whether it’s helping out at events or supporting my teammates, I always try to make a positive impact and encourage others to get involved.”
Even without his homecoming title, To’s been a major influence throughout the school with all his extracurriculars, exercising dedication and discipline being not only a part of varsity wrestling as a team captain, but also varsity football and varsity track team. He is also Flight Commander and Physical Fitness Officer for AFJROTC and involved in National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club, HOSA and Student Council. He is ranked 41/640 with a 4.0 gpa and he was nominated Student of the Month in 2023. To’s accolades also include being a Regional qualifier for wrestling.
“I contribute to my school by being involved in volunteering and giving back to the community,” To said. “I also play sports which help promote school spirit and represent our athletes in a positive way.”
After high school, To plans to attend the United States Naval Academy, majoring in cyber operations and wants to start his own business, but as of now he plans to live in the moment making as many lasting memories as he can for his senior year.
“I want to be known for always having a smile on my face and spreading positivity wherever I go,” To said. “My goal is to leave behind a happy and inspiring legacy, to be remembered as someone who led by example, motivated others and made a real difference in people’s lives.”
