For the students homecoming week is one of the most enjoyable weeks on the school calendar, but for the football coaching staff it is one of the most stressful.

While the parades, pep rallies and dress-up days are fun for the students, the outside distractions can be difficult to overcome.

Pike Liberal Arts welcomes in Lyman Ward Military Academy for homecoming on Friday, and head coach Gene Allen said that the week-long festivities are hectic on everyone involved with football.

“I told them on Monday that it is homecoming and they need to enjoy it,” Allen said. “They also got to remember that we have a game to play Friday night, and we haven’t won it yet.”

The pranks between classes are a part of homecoming weeks across the nation, and Allen said that he expects no different from his players, although he gave a warning to them.

“I know the seniors are going to prank the juniors, and the juniors are going to try to get the seniors,” said Allen. “That’s just part of it. I also told them not to go out there and do anything stupid and get in trouble or get hurt. If we lose a player now, it is basically like losing two, because we have so many players going both ways.”

Pike lost its homecoming game in 2012 to Ashford Academy, and last won in front of the alumni in

Kickoff for the showdown between the Patriots and Rangers is set for 7 p.m. at Dwight Ward Field at Delaney Kervin Stadium in Troy.