Hosted by the SGA, the Patriot Games, inspired by the Netflix show “Squid Games,” is a pep rally designed to promote school spirit, teamwork and student participation through a series of physical and group activities with one final winner in the end.
Unlike the latest pep rallies, this event was held on the school field, which provided more space for larger games and allowed more students to participate comfortably. The outdoor setting also contributed to a more energetic, open environment, with students on the bleachers cheering on their peers.
The first game played was Red Light, Green Light, which tested students’ reaction time and self-control. Participants moved forward when “green light” was called and had to stop immediately when “red light” was announced. Any movement after “red light” resulted in elimination. The goal was to reach the finish line without being caught moving. The open field made the game more dynamic, as players had more room to spread out and build speed, increasing the difficulty of stopping in time.
The second event was Tug of War, which focused on strength and teamwork. Two teams stood on opposite sides of a rope and attempted to pull the other team across a marked line on the field. This game required coordination as much as strength. Teams that worked together and pulled in unison were more successful than those relying on individual effort. The outdoor space allowed for a larger audience to gather around and watch from all sides.
Next was the Hula Hoop Groups game, which involved both movement and quick thinking. Students walked in a large circle, and around the circle, several hula hoops were placed on the ground. At random moments, a number was called out, and participants had to quickly form groups of that number by running through a hula hoop together. Any participant who did not make it into a group of the correct size in time was eliminated. Because the number changed each round, the game required students to stay alert and react quickly, making it both unpredictable and competitive. “So many people were fighting for spots in the hula hoops, it was insane,” junior Edlawit Abebe said.
The fourth event was the Obstacle Course, which was one of the most physically demanding activities. Participants raced through a series of challenges set up around the field, including running. This event tested agility, speed, and endurance. The larger outdoor space allowed for a longer and more complex course, which increased the level of difficulty.
The second-to-last event was the Water Balloon Toss, which introduced a lighter, more cooperative activity. Students worked in pairs, tossing a water balloon back and forth while gradually increasing the distance between them after each successful catch. The objective was to keep the balloon from breaking for as long as possible. As the distance grew, the challenge required more control and coordination. “I didn’t expect to have to run as one of the games, but it ended up being really fun because I was on one big team with my friends,” junior Elijah Cullen said.
The final event was Steal the Briefcase, which involved direct competition between two participants. Players chase each other trying to grab and hold a briefcase that represents the prize. The goal is to be the person holding it when time runs out, while others can steal it from you at any moment. The final round featured seniors Chase Mitchell and Josh Derell. Both competitors showed strong effort and determination, but Mitchell ultimately won in the final match. “I told everyone I would win and I did,” Mitchell said.
Overall, the second annual Patriot Games provided an engaging way to encourage student participation and school unity. The variety of activities allowed students to demonstrate different skills, while the outdoor setting enhanced the experience. The event successfully promoted teamwork, competition, and school spirit among the student body.
