The second Spirit Week rally kicked off with roaring energy at Palo Alto High School, as students crowded the Big Gym to cheer on their classes.
Juniors snagged an early win in the classic Hungry Hippos, while seniors captured victory in the new mystery challenge introduced this year.
The rally opened with Hungry Hippos, a longtime favorite, where students lie on scooters and collect dodgeballs. The juniors outperformed other grades with a quick and coordinated strategy that earned them the day’s first win.
According to Justin Fung, junior winner of Hungry Hippos with his teammate Andy Comsa, their strategy helped them win the game.
“We dominated on all levels,” Fung said. “We we obliterated them. It was too easy for us. We were really just going in slo-mo out there. Our strategy was to go slow and steady, because that always wins the race.”
According to senior spirit commissioner Arabella Guinle, the ASB focused on building more school spirit this year.
“Spirit Week is all about blending old traditions with new ones,” Guinle said. “We wanted to make things more exciting this year, giving students fresh memories while keeping the same community spirit that makes this week so special.”
Senior Nathan Lee, who competed in the event, said he has played this game before.
“It’s such a classic game,” Lee said. “We’ve played it before, so having that experience really helped us. It’s always great to go head to head with the other grades.”
Following the crowd pleasing opener, ASB surprised students with a new “mystery game,” where participants rush to get accessories to decorate their toilet paper-wrapped teammates. The seniors rose to the challenge, clinching the victory and keeping their reputation as strong Spirit Week contenders alive.
As the week continues, students can expect more themed dress days, lunchtime rallies and competitions leading up to Friday’s school rally.
According to Guinle, with the scoreboard now tied between juniors and seniors, the energy across campus remains high.
“Every year, Spirit Week brings everyone closer,” Guinle said. “It’s not just about winning. It’s about celebrating what makes Paly, Paly.”
