By Currents News
On Jan. 27, teachers and students at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy in Queens went head-to-head in a spirited volleyball match as part of a cherished annual tradition during Catholic Schools Week.
Eighth graders competed for bragging rights against the faculty, while the rest of the school cheered from the sidelines with handmade signs.
Principal Joseph Paniccia explained that the event serves as a fun send-off for the eighth graders in their final year.The game offered more than exercise — it taught valuable life lessons.
Eighth grader Danielle Francis highlighted the supportive atmosphere: “I like the fact that, like, even if somebody messes up, we’re always like, ‘Oh, it’s okay.’ I think that’s the best part. And just playing in general.”
Her classmate Raymond Clemente added that the match builds resilience: “It’s pretty much teaching you not to crush against very hard pressure… how to dig out of it is pretty much the lesson here today.”
Kindergarten teacher Megan Carroll noted the bonding benefits: “I feel like it gives them a really good bonding moment with the teachers as well and show them that they can have fun outside of the classroom.”
Principal Paniccia emphasized the broader lessons: “It teaches them sportsmanship. It teaches them leadership, how to win, how to lose. They obviously are having a ton of fun out there. And it’s really exciting. And it builds a better relationship between teachers and students.”
After three matches, the teachers emerged victorious, winning two rounds. The friendly rivalry strengthened community spirit and created lasting memories for the entire school.