June 1 marked the day of the ASB-hosted spikeball tournament, an event that drew in various students of all skill types. Teams of students competed against each other throughout the afternoon, the event being preceded by a tailgate. Ultimately, the event was a success, with enthusiastic participants and spectators.
The first thing most people noticed about the tournament was, in fact, the tailgate. IHS’ courtyard saw two food trucks with sweet beverages and desserts, including (but not constrained to) boba, ice cream sandwiches (with gluten-free and vegan options), root beer floats, and mochi doughnuts. The sweet treats paired perfectly with the beating sun. Sophomore spectator Eloise Peterson states, “I liked that there was an ice cream truck and especially that my friends were here…I really think spike ball is fun to watch because it’s really dynamic and a lot can happen in even a three second play and it always looks like everyone has fun.”
ASB teacher Kurtis Evans states, “The event was student-led. It was the group’s first time organizing an event like this so it was a little bumpy. I had to balance between letting them do their own thing and me coming into help, but they did a great job.” ASB is the schools’ “associated student body,” meaning that they assist in hosting various student-related events, such as prom and assemblies. In this case, it was the spikeball tournament. ASB is broken down into departments, meaning that each group is tasked with a different project or function of ASB so students get to engage in various projects. For a new event, IHS’ spikeball tournament was amazingly well planned.
The tournament itself was located in the grass plot of the courtyard, with multiple spikeball nets placed across the floor. Two teams of 2-5 players faced off against each other at each net elimination-style, both trying to keep the ball in play. Junior player Matthew Fischer states, “I grew up playing spikeball with friends. I think it’s a great way to get exercise and bond with others as a team.”
In contrast to most sports games at IHS, the spikeball tournament had a more relaxed feel–it wasn’t about who won or lost, but rather an activity to unwind, learn, and have fun. Whether a player or spectator, this Friday afternoon was a beautiful one. I encourage you to go out and explore other ASB-hosted events, or small club-hosted events. Although the spikeball tournament may not have had the sheer audience of a football game, both have merit.
