Fourteen teams, only one could come out on top. Many students of all grades across Pacifica competed against each other in a long, grueling week of superheated dodgeball matches; all for only one team to make it out as the dodgeball champions.
The tournament was certainly intense, but through competition, Pacifica succeeded once more in connecting the campus community through fun, high energy activities to boost the Mariner spirit. From Monday, August 25 through Friday, August 29, students of all grades and backgrounds supported each match in the gym during lunch. One team made it onto the winning podium and left the other teams in the dust.
Despite tensions being high, across all the teams there was one thing in common: the thrill and energy of the competition. No matter the outcome, the event was unforgettable. Current Junior, from the “Lady Glitter Sparkles” team, Ruby Van Note, comments that she had a lot of fun watching the sheer intensity of the game. In an insane moment, she comments how Leyla Ayres from “The Ballers”, managed to get both Ruby and her cousin out in a quick swoop; “She threw one ball and another right after, then we were both out.” While Ruby, unfortunately, did not get to stay until the end of the tournament, she stayed as an enthusiastic supporter, cheering on every match she could. For her, and many other spectators, the excitement wasn’t just about who won, but it was about connecting with friends and the school community. Overall, this unforgettable tournament really embodies what it means to be an engaged and inclusive Mariner of the Pacifica community.
Carrying on the legacy of the senior class before them, Nathan Williams, a current senior, and his team the “Country Club” entered the dodgeball tournament determined to defend their title. “The seniors on the baseball team my sophomore year won two years in a row, so we wanted to carry on the tradition”, Nathan said. Despite some tough moments during the tournament, including a game where only one teammate was left against four opponents, they pulled through with resilience and teamwork. “We didn’t really have a set game plan,” Nathan admitted, “We messed around and we acted like we had a game plan, but there was no real game plan going into it. It was just us trying to get the best player out on each team.” In the end, they walked away with medals, bragging rights, and plenty of memories and a legacy for other classes to carry on.
With that, the annual Pacifica dodgeball tournament comes to a close. “The Country Club” walked out of their final game with medals and Mariner points. As the participants leave their legacy for next year’s tournament, a few of them left some advice. Nathan Williams summed it up simply: “Just get a team of your friends and have the most fun you can. That’s about it. I mean, winning’s obviously the ultimate goal, but just having fun with your friends is the biggest part.” So now you have something to look forward to next fall. Gather your friends, form your team, and get ready to experience the intense thrill of Pacifica’s annual dodgeball tournament because next year’s champions could be you! Catch you on the court!
