Battle of the Grades or Battle of the Boys? Battle of the Grades, a popular school event organized by NHS in the winter, is set to take place on January 24 and will feature two basketball games: freshmen vs. sophomores, and most importantly juniors vs. seniors. The event is meant to bring students together through friendly competition and school spirit, and many students look forward to it each year. 

However, some concerns have been raised by students regarding team selections, particularly the lack of girls chosen to play. The players are chosen by a wheel. According to the released team lists, the junior team includes only three girls, and the alternate list for juniors is made up entirely of boys. This has led to frustration among students, especially since many girls signed up but were not selected. Some students feel the teams do not reflect the number of girls who are interested in participating. A solution could be having a wheel for the boys and a wheel for the girls to ensure equal numbers. 

 I interviewed a student and fellow friend at C. Milton Wright Reese Rizzi to get her take on things. Rizzi signed up for Battle of the Grades as a former basketball player to get the opportunity to play again and participate with friends. She was unfortunately not chosen and also not on the alternate list. Reese said “I felt like the teams were a little unfair this year, yes it was chosen by a wheel but the team consists mainly of boys, and the alternate list is also all boys” Reese then said “I am disappointed I will not be able to play.” 

While Battle of the Grades is intended to be a fun and inclusive event, students hope future selections will better represent everyone who wants to be involved. Addressing these concerns could help ensure that the event feels fair and enjoyable for all participants. We are still waiting to hear when this event will be re-scheduled due to our week off for snow.