The Kaiser high school gym has been packed for the last few weeks as students grabbed their friends and headed to watch the intramural volleyball tournaments. Teams went all out on the court, showing off their skills, teamwork, and serious school spirit. Multiple teams from numerous grade levels signed up to compete. Each team brought their own set of skills, but one thing they all had in common was that they were all ready to win.
Over the span of three weeks, each team played their best with every pass, set, and spike.
Sophomore Tobe Tamanaha, speaks about her experience playing for the volleyball team: Baddies Hawaii. “Volleyball intramurals are super fun since it’s not as serious as an actual sport season but I still get to have fun playing with my friends.” Tamanaha intends to play volleyball intramurals the rest of her years here at Kaiser with her friends.
Each tournament day, three games would be in session, giving the audience a good variety to watch from. Some teams decided to have a matching “uniform” to show unity within games.
Eventually, two teams distinguished themselves from the others and found themselves in the championship match. The 67 Elite went head-to-head with Unko Kyle Hilo Hitters Elite, keeping the crowd on their feet with every play. Both teams played for an intense 25 minutes, with both teams putting up a strong fight. In the end, the 67 Elite prevailed and took home the championship with a Jersey Mike’s gift card for each player.
Physical Education teacher, Christian Montoya, spoke about the importance of intramural sports at the school. “Intramurals give students an opportunity to get involved, stay active, and connect with people they might not otherwise,” he said. “Starting with so many teams and ending with such a competitive match shows how much effort students put into this.” Mr. Christian shares he’s excited to play next year, and aims to make it to the championship game.
The crowd also played a big role in the tournament’s success. Friends, classmates, and teachers filled the gym, cheering loudly and celebrating big plays from all teams. Spectator, Kaitlin Pada shares, “I had so much fun cheering for my friends and celebrating when they won, these games were super interesting to watch and were a good way to spend my lunch.” And instead of focusing on one team, many students agreed that the tournament was enjoyable because of its overall atmosphere with teams and spectators cheering.
By the end of the “season”, the gym cleared out, but people still talked about the games. Players from different teams were congratulating each other and joking about plays that almost worked. Even teams that got knocked out in earlier brackets still stuck around to watch.
Intramural volleyball gave students something new to do during lunch and be a part of something together. The tournament wasn’t only about winning. It was about showing up, competing, and supporting friends, which sums up who we are as Kaiser Cougars.
