After another showdown between students and staff at the annual volleyball game, the staff members continued their five year winning streak Thursday, Dec. 11.

This year’s preparation began even before the first serve, and head volleyball coach Cooper Phillips said the staff’s approach was practical and focused.

“A lot of stretching and Ibuprofen,” Phillips said.

Once the game began, the staff team opened slowly, losing the first round to the students. Assistant Principal Montrail Davis said there was a shift in momentum as the games progressed.

“There was not a proud moment in the first round,” he said. “But the proud moment was in the second round, where the comeback started.”

The staff eventually secured victories in the second and third rounds, marking their fifth consecutive year of winning the event.

For Davis, the purpose of participating went beyond competition.

“It’s just a good time to have some fellowship with the students and staff,” he said.

But for Phillips, there was one clear motivation.

“I just want to win,” Phillips said.

Students who attended shared a similar appreciation for the event, and senior Rosennis de los Ángeles Corrijo said she appreciated the effort shown by the teachers.

“It was nice seeing the teachers try so hard even though they don’t have time to practice,” she said. “I got emotional when the game got really close because we didn’t know who would win.”

Despite the competitive nature of the match, the event remained grounded in the school community and shared enjoyment. Davis emphasized the value of interactions outside typical classroom responsibilities.

“Anytime you can do that on a regular basis, and everybody truly has fun, that’s a good time,” he said.

With another staff victory added to the school’s history, Davis said the event continues to serve as a reminder of the relationships, teamwork, and spirit that define the campus and creates the opportunity to maintain a positive school culture and create connections outside academic settings.

As Davis summarized the ongoing winning streak, he said, “When you’re the best, you’re the best. It is what it is.”