Senior Rex Robbins was crowned as Escalon’s Homecoming King on Friday night, capping off a festive week on the campus of Escalon High School.

The crowning came at halftime of the varsity basketball game, a game that saw the Cougars battle the Mountain House Mustangs but ultimately take a loss.

Still, the evening featured an appearance by the EHS band and recognition at center court for all the Homecoming King candidates. Finally, there was the crowning of Robbins by the EHS Homecoming Queen, Grace Fitzgerald, who received her crown during the football season.

“I’m actually very surprised I won,” said a humble Robbins, all smiles after receiving the crown.

Three varsity basketball players – Steven Grossi, Max Nicholas and Sahil Prasad – were also nominated for the honor in addition to Cuyler Crawford and Robbins.

“This feels really good,” Robbins added. “It was a seal on my senior year, for sure.”

Robbins is the son of Jason and Beckie Robbins and was escorted to center court at halftime by his parents. Each candidate had an escort and posed for photos while Homecoming Commissioners Madisyn Widmer and Madison Matsunami read prepared remarks about each one.

Robbins, who has an older brother Jason, an EHS alum, is involved in school leadership and is serving this year as the ASB President. He is also the Art Club President and is involved in both cross country and track and field for the Cougars.

His plans after high school are to start his college education at Modesto Junior College and then transfer with the eventual goal of becoming a speech pathologist.

The message he offered to peers and underclassmen is to not be afraid of letting people see you for who you are, and always remember where you’re from.

“Be brave enough to make your dreams a reality,” he said.

Other candidates and their escorts on Friday night were Cuyler Crawford with parents Matt and Rashelle, Steven Grossi and dad Jimmy, Max Nicholas with dad Kirk Nicholas and mom Amie Conde, and Sahil Prasad with mom Ashni.

The Homecoming Week festivities included a Tuesday afternoon rally on Jan. 16 to introduce the candidates and put them through a variety of ‘competitions’ as well as special theme dress up days throughout the week.