About Raider Friday
Our Mission
Raider Friday is more than just a school event—a movement. It promotes unity, inclusion, and mental health awareness, all of which are core values of Raider Friday. This fully inclusive experience brings fans, students, and community members together to remind people they’re not alone and that they matter.
Our Programs
Raider Friday is a school-based program that brings the energy and unity of Raider Nation directly to students, promoting inclusion, school pride, and mental wellness. Each year, one school is selected as the Raider Friday Spotlight School, receiving a special visit that includes Raider super fans, cheerleaders, and community leaders. Students and staff dress in silver and black to show their spirit, while assemblies and activities encourage friendship, positivity, and support for one another. More than just a spirit day, Raider Friday empowers youth, builds community, and creates a meaningful experience focused on unity, inclusion, and the well-being of every child.
Our Team
The Raider Friday team is made up entirely of dedicated fans who have come together with a shared passion for community, youth empowerment, and Raider Nation pride. This grassroots effort is led by super fans, parents, educators, and community leaders who volunteer their time and resources to create something special for local schools. What started as an idea between fans has grown into a powerful movement that unites students, spreads positivity, and celebrates the values of inclusion, kindness, and mental wellness—all inspired by the love for the Silver and Black. Raider Friday is powered by the heart and hustle of real fans doing it for the right reasons.
Empowering Raider Friday's Youth Through unity
What Happens on Raider Friday at the Host School?
Raider Friday at the host school is a high-energy, unforgettable day built around unity, inclusion, and mental health awareness. From the moment students arrive dressed in silver and black, the Raider spirit takes over the entire campus. The day is hosted by a dedicated Raiders fan and includes appearances by former Raider players, Raider super fans, the Raiderettes, community leaders, and local dignitaries, making this a true celebration of community and connection.
The event begins with two back-to-back assemblies. The first assembly is for grades K–2 and lasts about 20 minutes. It kicks off with a spirited cheer-off between the “Silver” and “Black” sides, led by the Raiderettes and the Staton Elementary cheer team. Kids are encouraged to show their spirit while hearing powerful but age-appropriate messages about celebrating each other's uniqueness, being kind, knowing it's okay to ask for help, and understanding that every life matters.
After a short 10-minute reset, the second assembly begins for grades 3–5. This 25-minute program includes a message from a former Raider player focusing on unity, inclusion, and the importance of mental health. Councilwoman Victoria Seaman—who nominated the host school—will share a few words of encouragement, followed by messages from the principal and the Raider Friday team. This assembly also concludes with a spirited Silver vs. Black cheer-off.
Once the assemblies are complete, the Raiderettes, super fans, former players, council members, and school officials break into groups to visit classrooms. These visits allow students to take photos and have one-on-one moments with the guests. Every student and classroom will have the chance to participate, and all photos will be made available afterward.
The full event typically wraps up in about an hour to an hour and a half, with the assemblies lasting approximately 50–60 minutes total. Raider Friday is more than just a day—it’s an experience of empowerment, community pride, and lasting inspiration for every student involved.
