The North Central student section celebrates after a touchdown extends the Panthers’ lead over Brebeuf Jesuit. Photo by Jayden Williams (ay3framed).
After years of struggling to match the energy of rival schools, North Central’s student section has returned to the 2025–26 school year with new leaders, renewed pride and a mission to bring the hype back to Panther athletics.
With two former leaders graduating, seniors Charlie Barker and Landon Campbell are now in charge of leading the section.
In the past, North Central’s student section has had trouble keeping pace with competitors, but Campbell is determined to change that.
“We are looking to create more hope and hype coming from the student section this year,” Campbell said.
Campbell also hopes to make the section more organized and involved.
“I envision the student section being coordinated and loud,” he said.
While other sports had games earlier in the season, football consistently draws the largest crowds. On Aug. 22, North Central secured its first football win since October 2021, defeating Brebeuf Jesuit 35-13. The student section responded with energy, storming the field to celebrate with the team.
The excitement has already been recognized statewide. North Central was recently named one of the top eight student sections in Indiana by WISH-TV’s AC & WISH We Want the Banner segment.
Looking ahead, Campbell emphasized the importance of listening to students and promoting engagement.
“We will continue to promote sports on our social media account, as well as get feedback from the student section about what they want,” Campbell said.
Barker agrees that social media is a key tool for keeping students informed.
“Using Instagram is a good strategy I’ve learned to use,” Barker said. “The student section page has brought awareness to time, location and other important details regarding games.”
Barker also reminds students to represent the school well and follow established rules.
“As far as rules go, nothing is new. Have fun, but don’t do anything that would make you or our school look bad,” Barker said.
So far, students have lived up to these expectations, creating a spirited environment at athletic events.
“The atmosphere has been nothing short of amazing. I can see the future athletic events being fun and exciting,” Barker said.
