Seniors speed to victory at BOTC

BY SAFIJA SHATKU (CLUBS EDITOR) AND OLIVIA VAN DEURSEN (EDITOR-IN-CHIEF)

On May 27, students from all four grade levels came together to take part in a fierce competition and tradition at Old Bridge High School: Battle of the Classes. The Flashback Freshmen, Surfs Up Sophomores, Juicy Juniors, and Speedway Seniors competed head-to-head in numerous events, but only one grade came out on top: the Speedway Seniors.

The event kicked off with creative themed group dances. Each team choreographed a fun routine to show off the members’ charisma and talents while hyping up the audience. “My favorite part about BOTC was the dance,” said junior Gregory Moreno.

Standout activities included the Basketball Musical Chairs, Castle Ball, and Tug of War. New games this year, such as Pizza Box Knockout and Cardboard Box Stacking, kept the event fresh and exciting for returning attendees and participants. “It’s such a fun experience to get a break from classes and compete against other grades,” said sophomore Amy Valazza.

Each game required different skills and strategies. “I think we faced a couple challenges, but to overcome them we worked together as a team and had good communication,” said sophomore Gabriel Cano.

Students in the stands represented their classes with their class shirts and jovial cheers. “It was nice to see everyone supporting each other and cheering,” said senior Addison Albrecht.

Supportive peers and audience members encouraged teams to stay strong and come out on top with their signs and chants. “I came to cheer on my senior year classmates who are participating,” said senior Rianna Sawhney.

Sophomore Mia Molino calmly escapes a pursuing freshman, Maurizio Coco, in Pizza Box Knock Out.

With teamwork and support, the seniors took first place. “Our team worked really together,” said Albrecht. “We were all really excited and wanted to have fun because it was our last BOTC.”

As one of the most anticipated events of the year, BOTC creates a fun and memorable way to celebrate the nearing end of the school year. “I will [participate in BOTC next year] because I like competing and hope my class can win,” shared sophomore Matthew Chin.

The Flashback Freshmen anxiously wait for the start of Castle Ball.
The Speedway Seniors heave the rope with everything they have in Tug of War.
Junior Arya Patel looks for an open chair while holding her basketball in Basketball Music Chairs.
The Surfs Up Sophomores cheerfully sway in their team dance.
Freshman Hailee Cotungu points during the freshmen dance performance.
Nicholas Gallo and Gavin Bricks-Flynn play Rock, Paper, Scissors in a tense match to see who advances.
Freshman Mikayla Harris hops through hoops to reach an opponent.