The Student Council at Bridgewater-Raritan High School organized the annual Student vs. Faculty Volleyball Tournament on Friday, February 23.
And the students earned the bragging rights for 2024.
The student team sealed the victory and broke the faculty’s undefeated winning streak of two years.
Three sets were played from the start of the event to 7:30 p.m. Beginning exactly at 6 p.m., teachers were given the first serve. The teachers won the first round by three points, 25-22. Entering the second set, students served and won by five points, 25-20. The students then sealed the victory with a 26-24 triumph in the third and final set.
The faculty team was composed of nine players, while the students had the advantage of 15 players. The team colors were black for teachers and white for students, showcasing a panther’s paw print on the chest.
A lot of the event spectators were rooting for the students and were excited to watch the friendly rivalry between the two teams unfold. Senior Chris Lopez commented on his time at the game.
“I thought that it was a great tournament and think they should keep this ‘rivalry game’ going. I went to go and watch the students win, obviously,” he said.
Students without prior experience in volleyball were allowed to sign themselves up and participate, which has been a constant standard for this event. The skill range for this team was diverse to be more inclusive.
As for teachers, the only requirements were availability and the willingness to commit to practicing their serves and spikes.
Concessions were available outside of the gymnasium. The Student Council sold popcorn, candy, soda and cotton candy for the audience, which almost sold out during the second set.
According to Michele Mammone, who is the Co-Advisor to the Student Council with Sarah Cleary, the game raised enough money for the Student Council to sponsor a trip to the 2024 NJASC Spring Awards program at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson.
This is an event the Student Council hopes to continue in the future. Next year, the students may add another win to their record or the teachers may reclaim victory.
