Our Very Own “Super Bowl”

1 February 2012Taryn O

Every once in a while an exasperated Brentwood student will stop and ask themselves how they have come to this place, and why. For most, the final conclusion is obvious: Brentwood is a better fit than their previous school. But what convinces students that this school truly is what it promises: a chance that comes once in a lifetime, and full of new experiences? Many students experience numerable firsts after entering the gates on Mount Baker Road, but suddenly I find myself asking which of these is truly the cherry on top: the extra bonus that makes even the sullen weather of second term worth it?

When I arrived at the answer I could barely believe that it had taken me so long, this question was just as easy to answer as the first; it can be summed up into four words: the people you meet.

Living with others brings an entirely new level to friendship, and not just with your housemates, but with all your peers. People you, back home, would see only in classes, become those who you also see also in afternoon arts, and maybe even at the dinner table. It’s one of the many wonders of Brentwood: the community. Bonds are formed between the most unlikely people: this is how the wonder of interhouse works its magic.

Interhouse bonds are formed not only between people, but also houses. Some choose to make the most of this, as the houses of Alexandra and Whittall decided to do on Saturday night. There was a masquerade dance, but its end, ten o’clock sharp, masks were removed and lovely dresses were replaced with white clothing; it was time for Rock and Glow bowling.

Duncan Lanes was the final destination, and with great energy (with the time being so late as it was), boys and girls alike piled out of yellow school buses for a night of glow-in-the-dark activity. Some shone, just like their clothes, on the lanes, and dominated the scoreboards. Others chose a riskier route (for their score), and began to attempt the art of skills bowling. Through the legs, behind the back, under one leg, the possibilities were endless.

Similar to a peacock showing off his shades, the boys chose to woo ladies by exhibiting their skills, a feat that some may perceive as difficult when holding a shockingly pink ball, yet the Whittall boys excelled with flying colours. This isn’t to say that there was no competition from the female players, who, as they are so fond of doing, tried their very best to show up the boys.

The night was capped with a large delivery of 29 pizzas, and these incredible bowlers became ravenous hounds, feasting a way until little was left. When all was said and done and the buses had become loaded once again, mutual agreement was heard that is was indeed bedtime; Brentwood students aren’t used to being out until midnight, but it was certainly a much appreciated break.

In a few years we may not remember what type of pizza we ate, or what scores we achieved, but the memory of the two houses coming together is one that will not be soon forgotten. In much the same way that sleep is necessary, so are these connections with one another. Though not quite 1st in interhouse standings (2nd, we’re getting there!), Alex and Whittall have shown amazing camaraderie and never fail to have a good time.

Tayrn O

Where Students Choose To Be