John Paul II Catholic School turned up the volume on House pride and Warrior energy during this year’s highly anticipated House Olympic Day, held Friday after a weather-related delay earlier in the week. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Student Activities Director Kim McNab and the House deans, students from all four Houses brought the heat in a full day of friendly, fast-paced competition and fun!

Originally slated for Tuesday, soggy field conditions led to a last-minute pivot. “We pivoted to Friday due to inclement weather in the beginning of the week,” said Mrs. McNab. “We’re incredibly grateful for everyone’s flexibility and enthusiasm—it turned out even better than we hoped!”

Decked out in their House shirts, students were cheered on by teammates and faculty alike. House colors flew high as middle and high school students rotated through a series of spirited challenges designed to test both teamwork and individual grit.

Middle schoolers kicked things off with dizzying delight—literally—with the fan-favorite Dizzy Football, where spinning wiffle bats and hula hoops combined into a hilarious, high-energy event. Next came a classic game of Kickball, filled with dramatic pegs and sprinted bases. Then it was time for the Warrior Relay, where mentor groups divided and conquered in events like the sneaker scramble, sack race, wheelbarrow run, and egg balance (with surprisingly few yolk casualties).

The Inflatable Obstacle Course rounded out the morning’s contests as students zipped, bounced, and scrambled through the bouncy setup. “This year’s middle school crew brought big energy,” said Mrs. McNab. “They worked together, encouraged one another, and kept the spirit high all day!”

High school students faced off in some fierce but friendly matchups. Softball saw power hitters and big plays, while Beach Volleyball brought the bump-set-spike intensity. The Inflatable Relay proved more challenging than it looked, as teams raced giant balls across the field in a test of speed and coordination. Perhaps the most dizzying display of athleticism came during Dizzy PK, where penalty kicks followed a disorienting whirl on a wiffle ball bat.

“It was so fun seeing students compete with full heart while also laughing with their friends,” Tracy Sklarin, Sebastian House dean and JPII math teacher said. “These moments are what build the memories that last far beyond high school.”

After the competition wrapped, students gathered at the Commons to enjoy a delicious pulled pork lunch provided by Sippin' Cow and generously sponsored by Heaven’s Treasures. A sweet finish was available for purchase with a visit from Kona Ice, and a few extra rounds of dodgeball broke out on the practice soccer field before everyone moved to the gym for the much-awaited announcement…

And the House Cup Goes to…Sebastian House!!!

In a moment of roaring applause and celebration, this year’s House Cup Winner was announced. Sebastian House won both the Olympics itself and the Cup, capping off a day full of camaraderie, laughter, athleticism, and above all—school spirit.

“Our goal was simple—to bring the school together, have fun, and celebrate what makes each House and student unique,” Mrs. McNab shared. “And judging by the cheers, smiles, and teamwork we saw today—we more than succeeded.”