Nine boys from the Coginchaug Regional High School Class of 2023 competed for the title of Mr. Coginchaug 2023 on Friday, March 17.

The contestants — Dalton Bates, Ethan Covello, Drue Fleck, DJ Kozik, Jayson Penney, Christian Quesnel, Adam Schaffer, Nick Sklutovsky and Ryan Wirger – performed an opening dance number, showcased their talents, and donned their best formal wear.

After the formal wear portion of the show, Schaffer, Penney, Bates, Fleck and Kozik moved on to the final question and answer portion of the competition.

In the end, Drue Fleck was crowned Mr. Coginchaug in front of the sell-out crowd, with the rest of the boys cheering him on.

Teachers, Ms. Suchy, Ms. Altieri and Mr. Scianna, served as the judges.

The evening was sponsored by Coginchaug DECA, with the proceeds going to help offset some of the costs of the group’s upcoming trip to the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, FL.

“The show was a huge success,” advisor Ryan Donecker said. “A lot of work goes on for months behind the scenes, from a hospitality, management and marketing perspective. The members of DECA work tirelessly to ensure a smooth performance, and this year was, without a doubt, as successful as they come.”

Mr. Coginchaug 2023 started with a combined dance number choreographed by Coginchaug student Alex Woznyk.

From there, emcees Nora Healy and Clayton Wiseman kept the audience entertained throughout the evening.

Modern Formals in Middletown donated the tux rentals for the contestants, and Uncle Bob’s Garden Center in Middlefield donated the flowers and roses.