Winona Area Public Schools
The energy across Winona Area Public Schools on Wednesday morning was electric.
That’s because Herkymania took hold in the elementary schools, prompting cheers, high-fives and lots of smiles.
Herkymania is a Homecoming Week tradition started by football coach John Cassellius in 2008. It involves members of the Winona Senior High School football team — as well as the mascot, Herky — visiting all three WAPS elementary schools.
The visiting players stress the value of being a good student, teach them the Winona High Fight Song and spread school spirit. Then, the players split up and read a book to the individual classrooms. The players also answer any questions the students may have.
The event has become a staple of Homecoming Week. Other festivities include the parade, which begins Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the high school, and the game, which kicks off at 7 p.m. at Paul Giel Field on Friday night.