Philomath High School crowned its 2025 homecoming king and queen during halftime of Friday night’s football game at Clemens Field with seniors Tlacaelel Brambila Boatner and Avery Smith announced winners.
Both students expressed surprise and gratitude at being selected by their peers for the royal titles.
“I’m very surprised and very honored,” Brambila Boatner said. “It feels good to know that people voted for me.”
Smith echoed similar sentiments about the recognition from her classmates.
“It feels great,” Smith said. “I really thought it was going to be two guys that were going to win, but it feels super awesome to be loved by schoolmates.”
Brambila Boatner, who competes on Philomath High’s soccer team, said his favorite part of homecoming week was the football game itself. Smith, a dual-sport athlete who plays volleyball and runs cross-country while also serving in the PHS chapter of the National Honor Society, enjoyed the week’s festivities.
“I like dressing up and then the parade was super fun,” she said.
Looking back on their high school years, both seniors reflected on the relationships they’ve built. Brambila Boatner said he’ll remember “definitely the dumb activities with friends — a lot of those.”
Smith highlighted the bonds formed within their graduating class.
“Probably how close all of my classmates have gotten,” Smith said. “We’ve all really come together as a group and it’s just been super fun. We’re all good friends now.”
As they prepare for graduation, both have clear plans for their futures. Brambila Boatner will enter the Air Force and head to Texas for basic training with plans to attend tech school after his military service.
Smith intends to pursue nursing at Linn-Benton Community College, where she also hopes to continue her athletic career playing volleyball.
The newly crowned royalty also offered advice for younger students.
“Don’t be afraid to be yourself because you shouldn’t care what anyone thinks,” Brambila Boatner said.
Smith agreed, adding: “Don’t be afraid to be yourself and just be friends and get along with everyone. That’s really the best way to be. And also, don’t be afraid to ask questions to your upperclassmen.”
Other homecoming royalty finalists included freshmen Jaida Stevens and Joey McGovern; sophomores Daylan Martin and Charger McKinney; juniors Angelica Morales-Marquez and Reagan Heiken; and seniors Ana Candanoza and Jaxon Allen.
