On Dec. 3, a group of seniors from San Gabriel High School’s Class of 2026 upheld an annual tradition of friendly competition by taking part in a volleyball tournament against their teachers, coaches, and administrators.
Each year, the Senior Class Council organizes a Senior vs. Staff volleyball game, where both seniors and staff can sign up to play, regardless of experience or skill level. The annual event serves as an opportunity for students and staff to connect outside of the typical classroom setting.
On the day of the competition, a team of 10 seniors walked into the Matador Arena wearing bright red team shirts, ready to face off against the team of 13 staff members dressed in contrasting blue shirts. As the two teams warmed up on opposite sides of the net, a crowd of students from all grades gathered to cheer on their senior friends and favorite staff members, joined by other staff members who had also come to support both their current and former students and colleagues.
Beyond the competition, the game offers a chance for seniors to create lasting memories during their final year of high school, whether that be on the court or in the audience. The event is one of many traditions that celebrate the years of hard work seniors have put in, allowing them a moment to finally let loose.
Both teams put in the effort, with students and staff running and (literally) sliding across the court in attempts to keep the ball in play. Each match was played to 25 points, and after several rounds of intense play, the Class of 2026 ultimately came out on top.
After the official competition was over, the seniors requested additional rounds, not wanting the event to come to an end just yet. This time, however, the competitors mixed teams, with students and staff playing alongside one another. Now, the seniors would share the court with staff members who have known them since their freshmen year. Although this game was unofficial, the mixed teams continued to play with the same consistent energy.
Events like the Senior vs. Staff volleyball game highlight the tight-knit community at San Gabriel High School, where students feel comfortable interacting with staff, and staff engage with students with mutual respect. The game brought everyone together in a shared celebration of school spirit, both in the stands and on the court. The Senior Class Council plans to host a similar event in mid-March, bringing back San Gabriel’s annual Senior vs. Staff basketball game, creating yet another event bringing the San Gabriel community together.
