The energy in the gymnasium was electric as the boys took to the court for an intense game of Powderbuff volleyball. The school spirit was fiery, many students supported their classmates’ teams. As teams competed against one another, laughter, friendly rivalries, and unexpected spikes kept the crowd on the edge of their seats as the game unfolded. But beyond the fun, this event was all about bringing the school together uniquely and excitingly. The returning champions the Wisconsin Badgers finished the volleyball game on a high as they won again in the championship. The team of all seniors received a trophy and a $50 gift card to Coney Island. Helena Tabaczuk ’26 has never been to a game, so Powderbuff was very anticipating for her. Although Tabaczuk did not know what to expect, she was excited to root for her friends and relish the game.
“This event is special for the school because it brings everyone together to compete and or watch volleyball,” Tabaczuk said. “It was watching the boys play against one another with lots of energy and seeing some strategies the girls volleyball coaches helped their team of boys win.”
While others enjoyed watching the game, the competitors were thrilled to play in the game. Roarke Mckeown ’25 had the opportunity to participate in Powderbuff with his team. He worked with his team to create a strategy and learn some ways he could stay focused and win the game. As Mckeown prepared for the game, he discussed some of his anticipation while he played against the different teams and how he did not let losing discourage him.
“The most exciting part about playing in the game for me was having a long rally with the opposing team and still getting the point in the end,” Mckeown said. “The teams were very competitive and even though we didn’t win, it was still fun to come together with friends and to be able to participate in the event.”
Although the actual game of Powderbuff is fun to watch, the setup has a particular process. Powderbuff organizer Quin Grabowski ’25 discussed the many challenges she and other organizers faced when the competition was getting set up and how she overcame them.
“Taking after the senior class who put this event on for the first time last year we hope this may become just another one of the looked forward to traditions at GP South and a way to get the student body involved,” Grabowski said. “One of the major ways we think this event will be a success is it is a conjoined effort between student association, student council, and Devils Den, so all hands will be on deck the day off to ensure the event runs smoothly.”
