The start of this year's faculty vs. students sports matchups
Father Pomeisl looks to drive to the basket during last year's Faculty vs. Seniors basketball game. This year's game will take place after school on May 8.
Annual Faculty vs. Seniors basketball showdown to take place on May 8
At Monsignor Farrell, we have a long-standing tradition that has recently resurfaced, reinitiating the spirit of competition between faculty and students. And for a third year in a row, the faculty and students will do battle on the court and field.
It all begins with the annual Faculty vs. Seniors basketball game, headed up by Mr. Baldassano, '05, which will take place on Thursday, May 8, after school in the Farrell Gymnasium.
Members of the faculty say they've been quite grateful for this at it allows them to compete with students over something other than grades.
"It's a quite healthy outlet for any hard feelings," said Fr. Pomeisl.
Mr. Baldassano dribbles the ball during last year's Faculty vs. Seniors basketball game, which the seniors won.
Of course, it is easy to say that when he is usually the one winning. From his own extensive experience in basketball, which includes playing in the CYO and through college, he believes that faculty members possess a higher skill level to the students.
That has led to an interesting dynamic: the faculty plays students who are much younger than them. This leaves it up to the question: is experience better then athleticism?
The faculty vs. students sports rivalry has fostered a sense of camaraderie and competition, giving students a chance to push back against their teachers.
The games are open to any faculty member who wishes to participate.
Mr. Kennedy looks to get an opening and score during last year's game. He played a big role for the team during last year's game, which was won by the students, and 2023's game, which was won by the faculty.
Fr. Pomeisl. jokingly said they have created a larger divide, which some argue adds to the fun, and the encouragement of trash talking also just adds fuel to the fire. The faculty's competitiveness is evident in the games -- especially when Fr. Pomeisl and the faculty are coming in off losses in both basketball and softball last year.
The games themselves are typically held without tickets, meaning all students can come and watch. The basketball rivalry is particularly intense for seniors, as Father Pomeisl said that he takes particular pleasure in knowing the seniors for years -- only to crush them.
While basketball and softball remain the primary focus, there's talk of expanding the competition to other sports, primarily bocce.
While there is no official word on the faculty vs. underclassmen softball outing yet, initial plans anticipate the game occuring in early June, right before the end of the school year.
The faculty versus student games at Monsignor Farrell are more than just a competition. They’re a fun way to bring everyone together. With some friendly rivalry and lighthearted banter, these events help build the Farrell brotherhood and create lasting memories for both students and faculty.
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