In between the Montoursville v. Loyalsock JV and Varsity Basketball games on Monday, Jan. 12, Noah Rakestraw was crowned the new “Mr. Montour.”
One of the first thoughts Rakestraw had upon hearing his name announced was that he was going to be able to make a tough Instagram post.
Mr. Montour is a long-running tradition at Montoursville High School where eight senior boys are nominated onto the “Mr. Montour Court,” where they get to participate in many dress-up days along with their chosen escorts.
The title of “Mr. Montour” goes to the person who embodies the spirit of Montoursville the best.
This year, the senior class voted for and crowned Rakestraw as the school’s new Mr. Montour.
“I will continue to be a role model because it shows people looking up to and respect me,” said Rakestraw.
During the ceremony between games, the court members each walked out to center court with their escorts as their future plans were announced over the loudspeaker.
The last to walk out was the “Mr. Montour Enthusiast,” Gus Lehman, who was escorted by the 2025 PA State Laurel Queen, senior Alice Ravert. Gus had the special honor of crowning Rakestraw once his name was announced.
In addition to the highly anticipated ceremony, the court, along with their escorts, got to participate in many dress-up days, ranging from “White Lie Wednesday” to “Rhyme Without a Reason.” There were definitely some favorites among the court members.
Senior Ethan Thomas remarked that his favorite theme day was Decades Day, while senior Gabe Vanderwall claimed his favorite was Rhyme Without a Reason.
On Friday, Jan. 9, the Mr. Montour Court members, their escorts, and their families attended a pasta dinner in the school cafeteria. Mr. Richard DeLong noted that everyone brought a dish to share.
“[Dinner] was beautiful,” said Rakestraw. “It reminded me of one last pasta night from football season.”
Many of the boys on the court claimed that while they did hope to win the crown, they cared more about making memories and having a good time.
Featured photo (at top): Senior Noah Rakestraw shakes hands with third grader Gus Lehman during the ceremony. This photo was taken immediately after Rakestraw was crowned “Mr. Montour.” Photo by Albright Studio Photography
Socials