CFNN Reporter: Nicolle Owens

Cape Fear High School celebrated its 2026 homecoming season by recognizing the students selected for this year’s homecoming court. As the school comes together to celebrate homecoming, the court highlights the excitement, school spirit and sense of community that make this time of year special. For the seniors, being voted onto the court adds another meaningful milestone to their final year of high school, making the 2026 homecoming celebration one to remember.

Our 2026 homecoming king and queen are Darius Walker and Soleil Knaff! While playing during the homecoming game against Purnell Swett, Walker was announced as the new king. In his place, freshman Cam Johnson walked and received the crown in his place. Walker is a member of the varsity football team, as well as the student government association here at Cape Fear. Knaff not only represents Cape Fear as the homecoming queen, she is a passionate member of the varsity cheer team; in addition to cheer, she is involved in the DECA organization, FBLA, beta club, the natural science academy, and the freshman mentor program.

Walker and Knaff both spoke about the honorable title they have received, “It was a cool experience to be able to see that my classmates think that highly of me to vote me as king. I really appreciate it,” said Walker.

“It was just really exciting and very surprising, but I’m very grateful to be selected as queen,” said Knaff.

Receiving the first runner up homecoming king and queen position was Fabrico Rivera and Lucy Brinker! Serving as the first runner up homecoming king, Rivera also likes to put his time into being a part of the varsity cheerleading team, the student government association, the freshman mentor program, the national science academy, beta club, student 2 student, as well as science olympiad. Representing the first runner up homecoming queen, Brinker puts her time and effort into the school by also being a part of the varsity cheerleading team, varsity girls swim team, the student government association, and being a freshman mentor.

“Being on homecoming court was such a surreal experience. I was honored to be selected by my peers and paired with one of my closest friends,” said Rivera.

“I had such a great experience on homecoming court, being able to ride in the parade, do my handshake at the pep rally, and walk on the football field was so much fun! I was so excited and beyond thankful to get first runner up,” said Brinker

Lastly, being chosen for second runner up homecoming king and queen was Blake Aurty and Madelyn Nichols! Representing the second runner up homecoming king, Autry serves as the student government association executive secretary, as well as being part of FFA. Representing second runner up homecoming queen, Nichols serves the roles of being president of both HOSA and the natural science academy, followed by being a part of the student government association, the freshman mentor program, FBLA, beta club, science olympiad, and the national technical honors society.

“It felt pretty good because I got to experience one last big thing maybe before I graduate and I got to stand out there in front of all my peers and look cool,” said Autry.

“It was an honor. I had fun getting ready for the night and doing it with my friends. The anticipation was definitely worth it,” said Nicholas.

Cape Fear High School celebrated the senior boys voted onto the 2026 Homecoming Court, recognizing Jackson Carte, Roman Erb, Mac Johnson, Tye Johnson, Davis Spruill, James Scriven, and Parker Wallace. Being selected for the court was a memorable part of their senior year, giving them the opportunity to be recognized by their classmates and school community. For these seniors, the experience added another special memory to their final year of high school.

When asked about being selected for the Homecoming Court, Davis Spruill shared, “It was a once in a lifetime experience that I was really grateful for and so glad that I could be a part of,” said Spruill

Cape Fear High School also honored the senior girls selected for the 2026 Homecoming Court, celebrating Aslyn Autry, Alexis Baker, Addison Davis, Ally Shannon, Peyton Starling, Scarlett Tetlow, and Kloe Watts. Their selection marked another exciting moment in their senior year as they celebrated alongside their classmates, friends, and families. Being part of the court allowed these students to take part in a memorable school tradition as they approached the end of their high school journey.

Reflecting on her selection, Alexis Baker said, “Being on homecoming court was such a special experience, and being able to share it with some of my best friends was truly a blessing! I made so many memories and I’ll hold on to them forever! I also love any excuse to get all dolled up, so getting dressed up was so so fun! My favorite part was definitely coming up with the handshake. It was so fun for me,” said Baker.

This night was a big moment for each and everyone of these seniors chosen to be in the homecoming court. It was an opportunity for them to celebrate their accomplishments, reflect on their high school experiences, and create lasting memories with their fellow peers. As they prepare for the next chapter of their lives, being recognized as part of the homecoming court made this night even more meaningful and memorable during their senior year.