As Ice Games get closer, those involved in House wait for their chance to compete in the many events it has to offer. In its second year as a half-day competition, Ice Games has a total of 13 events, its newest addition being the field goal kicking competition. Students have the opportunity to compete for the rest of their school day after their exam periods on Dec. 18.
“We had a meeting in the Aux Gym and [Houk Dean Kathy Kraus] kind of explained all the events and we practiced some of the games to get people interested and signed up for the games, which we didn’t do last year,” Houk sophomore Becca Rauh said. “So I think that more people signed up this year, which [will] really help a lot.”
Many Houses have incorporated practice for these events into their daily House schedule, such as playing Name That Tune during club days. Each student is able to compete in two sessions; regardless of whether the student has any required exams scheduled for that day, students still in house are required to check in for attendance before Ice Games’ events start in the afternoon.
“I just like having everyone participate [in Ice Games]; I think it breaks up our school year, instead of waiting until the end [of the year] to have House games,” Prospect Hill Dean Phil Carr said. “I like having a little midway between [the start of the year] and [House Games Day] with another event for more kids to participate.”
House itself has given students options between athletic, academic and fun filled events throughout the year. Last year’s Ice Games Cup was given to Ridge, however, at the end of the annual House Games Day, Prospect Hill won the championship. With the current standings, Ridge leads with 23 points, only 7 points in front of Houk.
“I feel like [the seniors] are really good at encouraging people to sign up for things by saying, ‘you’re going to enjoy it so much more if you actually do stuff’ and they’re really big leaders,” Rauh said.
Upperclassmen are able to opt out of House, however, those that have continued to stay have created leadership and mentorship roles throughout their House. Over the course of the year, these students will be able to work together towards earning the House Cup.
“I really wanted to be a part of Ridge this year because I’m a senior and I want to help out,” Ridge senior Gina Martin said. “I don’t care who wins, even if it’s us again, but I think that it’s a good way to spend our time for the midterms.”
Students are able to make House what they want, with the overall intent to bring students and faculty together to build relationships. Students are able to create an inviting place to have time together at the end of the day and throughout the year, get to compete in events if they choose.
The next event once Ice Games concludes will be Battle of Books, where many students have already started reading the 13 books on this year’s list.
