Throughout the school year LM seniors have participated in several grade-wide activities aimed to bring the class together such as Senior Sunrise. While these events were fun and engaging, the senior class, specifically a group of ten friends, felt that there was a need for something more. The friend group (Eliza Castello ’24, Lily Padersky ’24, Avery Ender ’24, Greta Oberdiek ’24, Sydney Grunfeld ’24, Laney Harris ’24, Dani Itkin-Ofer ’24, Taylor Axelrod ’24, Lila Schwartzberg ’24 and Maya Kirschner ’24) played kickball together throughout their junior year. Having had great experiences with their own games, they decided to bring it to the rest of the senior class, creating the Senior Spring Kickball League (not affiliated with LM). One day in January, after an afternoon of sledding, they sat and talked about how the league would work and the rules that would be put into place. Despite their planning, the idea was shelved until March in anticipation for the warmer weather, when they began to recruit players. Seniors showed so much interest that the league created ten teams, each with a unique name and color.
The kickball league has proven to be a huge hit, not just among the participating teams, but across the entire senior class. The first set of games on April 7 attracted many spectators, with students from other teams coming out to cheer on their classmates and friends. Participants have been happy to share their enthusiasm for the experience, with Josh Huh ’24 remarking that is was, “Great idea, a fun way for seniors to hang out and have fun,” and John Mobley ’24 called it “very entertaining, something good to do on a Sunday afternoon.” Even though there have been some bumps in the road, the organizers have worked hard to overcome, making sure that kickball is enjoyable for all.
As the league inches toward playoffs in just a couple weeks, each team has been practicing, determined to secure their spot in the championship game. Each team will participate in the single-elimination bracket based on seeding from the past week’s games. The organizers have been watching closely to create the fairest set-up possible. The victors of the kickball league not only gain bragging rights but also await a big cash prize that has yet to be announced.
In order to keep everyone updated, the organizers have been very active on their Instagram account, @lmseniorkickball, posting live game updates and curated hype videos with all of the extra content. The account additionally keeps players and fans in the loop regarding game schedules and is available at any time to answer questions. Whether it is tagging teammates in action shots or rallying friends to come out and support, the Instagram page has undoubtedly played a huge role in the positive kickball experience.
Looking ahead, as the end of the school year for seniors is fast approaching, the organizers have a vision of passing the league down to a deserving group of juniors. They hope the legacy of the league will be carried on with the same passion and dedication for years to come. Seeing firsthand the joy and excitement from all participants, the organizers could not wish for anything more than the future LM classes participating in this extraordinary event. Regardless of the outcome, the bonds formed will leave a lasting impression and good memories to reminisce upon. Some would say kickball just kicks differently.
