On Friday nights under the stadium lights, the Urbaniacs stand out in a sea of blue and white paint. They proudly cover themselves in school colors, painting players’ numbers and last names across their backs to show support for the team. From head to toe, they embody school pride — spelling out “URBANA” across the bleachers and hyping up the crowd with chants that can be heard across the field. Their painted bodies, bold flags, and coordinated outfits make them impossible to miss, and their energy sets the tone for every game.

This year’s Homecoming football game was one for the books. Facing Walkersville in a nail-biter, Urbana looked like it might fall behind, but the team clutched up in the final minutes to secure a 29-22 victory. The Urbaniacs were there every second, their bodies painted in red, white, and blue for the USA-themed night, cheering, chanting, and waving flags with relentless energy. Stars, stripes, and creative designs covered faces and backs, showing school pride and supporting every player as if the outcome depended on their spirit alone. Every cheer, chant, and wave of a flag seemed to lift the players on the field, reminding them that the entire school stood behind them.

Throughout the game, the Urbaniacs kept the crowd energized, turning tension into excitement. Every touchdown, defensive stop, and big play was met with loud cheers, coordinated chants, and school-wide pride. Their enthusiasm was infectious, inspiring even the most hesitant fans to stand, clap, and join the roar. The group’s dedication extends beyond just being loud — they spend hours before each game planning themes, painting themselves, and organizing outfits to make each appearance unique and memorable.

The Urbaniacs don’t limit their efforts to football. They bring the same energy and support to all fall sports, from soccer to field hockey, and flag football, ensuring that every Urbana athlete feels encouraged and celebrated. They understand that school spirit isn’t just about winning games — it’s about creating a sense of community and pride that extends across the entire school. Their presence at every event helps build camaraderie among students and athletes alike, making Urbana a more unified and spirited community.

For the Urbaniacs, being part of the group is about more than just cheering — it’s about friendship, memories, and school pride. Urbaniac Mason Mireles enjoys spending time with his friends and fellow Urbaniacs, finding the camaraderie just as exciting as the games themselves. Another Urbaniac, Justin Humbert, says his favorite part is being around Sergio, the head Urbaniac, whose energy and leadership inspire everyone else to give their all. One of the lead Hawkettes, Lexi Bristow, loves embracing the spirit of Urbana, from chants to decorations, and seeing how their energy unites the entire school. Rylie Lange treasures the fun memories they create together, from paint parties to theme nights, which often last far beyond the stadium. Many of the Urbaniacs also point out that being part of the group gives them a chance to make an impact on others — lifting teammates’ spirits, energizing fans, and creating a sense of community that goes beyond just sports.

With paint, pride, and unshakable energy, the Urbaniacs bring Urbana school spirit to life at every game, supporting athletes, inspiring fans, and making every event — football or otherwise — an unforgettable celebration of community, pride, and teamwork. From small victories to championship games, the Urbaniacs remind everyone that school spirit isn’t just something you see in the stands — it’s something you feel in every cheer, every chant, and every shared moment with friends and teammates.