Juniors Win Powderpuff

Written by Anisha Kusunam

November 2023

Picture this: a sunny afternoon on the BTHS field, laughter echoing across the turf as a group of spirited girls gear up for a friendly flag football match. Cleats, jerseys, and maybe a short pre-game speech before the match commences. Add four groups of 10–13 enthusiastic girls, donning jerseys and preparing to embark on their flag football escapade. Girls weaving through the field with grace, executing picture-perfect and cunning flag pulls. The chaos is both glorious and contagious as they revel in the thrill of the game. The atmosphere is electric, with a sense of camaraderie that transcends the boundaries of the playing field. This occasion is nothing less than the electrifying event known as Powderpuff!

Anticipation had been mounting in the days leading up to the Powderpuff showdown, with students and teachers alike eagerly awaiting the clash between the seasoned seniors, jaded juniors, and the less experienced underclassmen. The teams engaged in rigorous training sessions, honing their skills and developing strategic plays under the guidance of dedicated student coaches. They could be spotted outside during the lunch hours of school, training in chilly conditions, with some teams even arranging out-of-school practice sessions to sharpen their skills to the highest degree. Many things can be said about this year’s powderpuff match, but one thing is certain: flag football isn't just about the game; it's about the friendships forged on the field. The shared laughter, victories, and even the occasional fumbled flag create bonds that go beyond the confines of the turf.

// The excitement fills the open air during these Powederpuff games.

The palpable sense of camaraderie and team spirit displayed by each grade was easily recognizable, as everyone took immense pride in their teams while watching the short, 15-minute football matches. The first game between the Juniors and Sophomores had students racing outside to secure adequate spots to watch the game. The final score was 20-0, with three touchdowns scored and one “field goal” worth two points. The next match between the Seniors and Freshman concluded in a comparable manner, with the Seniors beating the Freshman by a sizable amount, preventing them from scoring a single touchdown. 

As halftime approached, the boys of each grade surprised the crowd and judges with meticulously choreographed (and sometimes wild!) dance routines. In last place were the Freshman, although their routine was applaudable. They composed a hilarious dance with songs like “Deli” by Ice Spice and “Agora Hills” by Doja Cat. In third place were the sophomores, featuring songs such as Nelly Furtado’s “Promiscuous” and “Love” by Keyshia Cole. In second place were the Seniors, who had an excellent routine with songs like “DNA” by Kendrick Lamar and Ariana Grande’s “Fantasize”. Finally, in first place, were the Juniors, who had choreographed their routine to the songs “I’m Just Ken” by Ryan Gosling, “No Hands” by Roscoe Dash and Waka Flocka Flame, and “Oops!…I Did It Again” by Britney Spears. Their electrifying performance outshone the rest, automatically putting the Juniors in the lead with an extra six points. 

// The juniors’ cheer performance left quite an impression on the judges.

The second half of Powderpuff, featuring the upperclassmen teams, saw even more outrageous plays. Throw in fouls, stolen ankles, spilt tears, injuries, and both teams wanted victory at all costs. The tension in the air was palpable, the crowd anxious to see whether the Juniors or Seniors would win. Despite facing tough competition from the Seniors, advantaged by their experience, the Junior team remained resilient. From the start of the match, Juniors gained influence with a series of strategic moves, breaking through the Seniors' defense and scoring crucial touchdowns. In the end, the Juniors were victorious, represented by their final score of 24-6. Congratulations, Juniors! ❧