Dodge Ball!

Schuyler in the midst of a heated “Cage Match”

Last weekend was Harvest Dinner: an event integral to the MCS experience for years. However, something that has become integral to our MCS 39 experience, the experience of 36 juniors from all over, has been Dodge ball. Dodge ball was implemented this year as part of the new Outdoor Athletic Program, so fondly called OAP.

It is affectionately called the “cage-match,” because of its setting in the cage-like atmosphere of the tennis courts, surrounded by chain like fence on all sides. It may seem simple, your friendly elementary school gym-class game, this is not the case. There may be good-natured rivalries that last from week to week, cheering for teammates, and loving nicknames. Regular participants include Alice “Sticky-hands” Kister, so named because of her knack for catching the ball, Ted “Take it to the face” Oxholm, named after his fearless war cries, and Ben “Sniper” Redman, named due to his impeccable skill and the terror he instills in us all. However, once “Dodge ball!” is called, the game begins. There are no alliances. Cabin-mates pelt cabin-mates, students hit teachers and teachers hit students in return, and headshots are passed out like candy.

All of the bruises and scrapes are worth it when it comes down to it and you are one of the few left and everyone is on the sidelines, chanting your name. When it’s just you and another person and you have all the balls on your side of the court. When you make eye contact with your opponent and proceed to raise your ball (the un-catchable “number fun” ball if you have your wits about you) high above your head and throw it at their knees and, with a pleasant “boink,” you have won the game.

-Schuyler Dalton, Carlisle, MA