Twenty thirteen was a wonderful year in Walt Whitmanland. While the rest of the country was obsessing over celebrity personalities and debating over controversial policies like the legalization of recreational marijuana, Whitman had its own rollercoaster year. Take a look back at Whitman’s top five moments of 2013:
5. Happy “Hunger Games”
In a creative attempt to beat second semester blues, a group of last year’s seniors organized a grade-wide “Hunger Games” – the first ever held at Whitman. Students traded the movie’s heavy weaponry for highlighters, but the competition was just as savage. To “assassinate” classmates, students drew on their peers with a highlighter.
The Hunger Games makes the top five for its originality and inclusiveness. In addition to bringing together the graduating seniors, the entrance fees went towards Hurricane Sandy relief. This is a great tradition that will be easy to continue in future years.
4. “Miss Saigon”
The fall musical “Miss Saigon” was the school’s most technically advanced performance ever. Whitman Drama brought the wartime musical to life with jarring sound effects, projection screens and a surround sound system. Additionally, the darker storyline was a notable shift from the upbeat and comedic musicals from years past. “Miss Saigon” captures the #4 spot not only for its dramatic storyline and special effects, but also for its incredibly talented acting cast.
3. Lady Vikes Win the State Championship
Not every high school can brag about having the best soccer team in the state. The varsity girls’ amazing 16-1-1 season culminated in a spectacular championship win against the Catonsville Comets. The game was a nail-biter, but the Lady Vikes sealed the victory with two goals from midfielder Anna Gurney.
The championship takes the #3 spot because of the novelty of the event and the girls’ hard work and dedication that sealed the win. Furthermore, the Whitmaniacs rallied hundreds of students who bussed up to UMBC to cheer on the team. The win marked the second state championship for the Lady Vikes and the first ever for coach Greg Herbert.
2. Hear Whitman “ROAR”
Katy Perry’s “Roar” contest, one of the most unique and exciting competitions of the year, had the entire school wild with Viking spirit. Though it was a last minute effort by the SGA, the huge student participation rate and creative concept made the video a serious contender for the grand prize: a private Katy Perry concert. “Roar,” a unique concept, unified the entire school rather than attracting a specific crowd of students, setting it apart from other events. Even though the video didn’t win, “Roar” gets the #2 spot for an amazing display of school spirit and camaraderie.
1. February: LLS Month
The best part of 2013 was the amazing fundraising events for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society last February. The school raised $91,761, beating out not only rival Walter Johnson, but the entire nation. Innovative events like the Red Rush 5K, bRave and Guy Auction were highlights of the month, bringing in thousands of dollars each. Not only did LLS Month contribute to a great cause, but it also offered fun events that brought the school together.
Twenty thirteen was a spectacular year, with highlights in areas ranging from sports to school spirit. Though it’s going to be hard to beat the past year’s events and victories, 2014 will hopefully be just as amazing, if not better.
