Successful teams are those that inspire and are inspired by others. For years The Pack has supported CHS
athletics, rain or shine, win or lose. The Pack’s reliability has solidified its place as one of the Valley’s most premier student sections. From embarrassing defeats to California Interscholastic Federation championships, Pack City has and always will be there for the Coyotes. Only the bravest souls throughout history have lead the mighty Pack and its loyal members. Only the loudest, most spirited
students have the opportunity to propel their beloved teams to victory. Only the chosen few can be trusted with carrying on the traditions of Pack City.

This year a group of capable seniors were handpicked for the job: seniors Josh Ryngler, Liam Bonniot,
Grant Nechak, Max Sonnenberg, Mitchell Levy and Zach Cohen. Inspired by Pack leader legends Chris
Varonos, Josh Himmelstern and Chris Sajkoski, the six have bold ideas about how to maintain the hype throughout the year.

“One of our goals is to give the pack a new look whether it’s with chants or themes while still keeping the traditional ideals,” said Sonnenberg.

The six are determined to leave their own legacy while preserving the classic Pack authenticity. They bleed black and gold and view the position of Pack leader as an honor greater than any other.

“It’s like winning a Nobel Prize… and then ten
Grammys,” said Levy.

Behind all the glamor and recognition that they receive, the leaders have a tough duty to fulfill. Being energetic and hopeful at all times is no simple task.

“It takes an insane amount of energy, a lot of heart, and a loud voice to effectively execute this role,” said Bonniot. “I definitely have to be prepared to lose my voice every game, because it’s inevitable that it will happen.”

In order to be crowned a pack leader, one must exhibit a certain level of swagger.

“You have to be suave,” said Nechak. “You have to be loud and be a baller.”

Maybe being humble is not as important, but their confidence will surely aid them when dueling with rivals.The leaders aim to embarrass the “Green Hole” of Thousand Oaks High School and the “Power Plant” of Agoura High School at every chance possible. Their pre-game traditions are simple. After meditating to various rap artists in the parking lot, the six finish preparing with their favorite ritual of all.

“We worship TGeb (CHS quarterback Tristan Gebbia) for a bit and are ready to battle,” said Cohan.

In the eyes of an athlete, the Pack’s presence is irreplaceable. Since all six leaders have participated on some sort of sports team at CHS, they are familiar with how inspiring the sea of black shirts can be.

“As a player myself, seeing that The Pack is there to support is the best feeling,” said Ryngler. “I’m glad to have had the chance to experience such a great role both on the court and from the stands.”

The group leaders hardly argue, ensuring that their focus stays on school-spirit. As seniors, the six hope to have a final year full of stuffed bleachers, exciting victories and many laughs. The Class of 2016 Pack Leaders are ready to get loud and prove which student section rules the valley.