The annual schoolwide tournament has just passed, and another year of fun competition took place. This beloved NYC Museum School tradition was as fun as it was intense, with a mix of fierce competitors and students looking for a fun community experience making up the teams.
The first matchup was between the freshmen class and the juniors. Ava Bach, a junior at Museum School with very little volleyball experience, signed up for the sense of community. “All my friends were playing, I thought it would just be fun hanging out with them and [getting to] know more people in my grade,” Bach said.
After a hard-fought battle, the juniors pulled away in the end to move on to the second round.
The Class of 2028, the victors of last year’s tournament, were determined to defend their title. That spirit was embodied by sophomore Laila Menai-Duarte before their matches. “I really wanna win the game, but I will have fun in the process,” Menai-Duarte said. “I’ve been playing volleyball for…about five years, but over the past two years I think I’ve gotten really good.”
Their matchup was against the seniors, who garnered oohs and aahs from the crowd with their powerful spikes and serves. Yet after an incredible match with several match-points for both sides, the sophomores got the edge and won 28-26.
In the second round, despite the best efforts of the juniors, the sophomore class was able to move on to face the teachers. Then, after a close match, the sophomores prevailed over the teachers and reclaimed their crown as Museum School volleyball champions.
Ultimately, the tournament wasn’t just about winners and losers; it was about the Museum School community. For some seniors, the volleyball tournament was a fun way to engage with their community as their time at the NYC Museum School comes to a close. Sofia Ramberg, a senior who has been at the school since freshman year, echoed this. “I signed up because it’s my senior year and…it’s just fun to do,” Ramberg said.
At the same time, the tournament served as an introduction into the community for many freshmen. Alivia Imerukaj, a freshman, said she signed up because “it’s fun [and she likes] playing with new people.” Maxine Wirtz, another freshman, agreed. “It’s good to get into the school spirit…meet new people, and have fun experiences,” Wirtz said. “[The tournament] made me more confident in my time at this school, and I’m excited for the next few years.”
The schoolwide sports tournaments are truly something special at the NYC Museum School. They are a way for some to channel their competitive spirit while bringing the whole community together every year.
