The rivalry between Grosse Pointe South and Grosse Pointe North is never anything short of exciting, no matter what sport it may be. This past Thursday, October 16, the girls’ volleyball teams faced each other for another exciting game, but this time it looked a little different. The two teams worked together to help support Athletes Unlimited for their annual charity game.
Athletes Unlimited is an important charity to help support paraplegic people who aspire to be athletes like many others, but face bumps in the road trying to become one. This charity helps raise money to provide equipment and other necessary services for these aspiring athletes. Charlotte Kowal ‘27 says how South and North worked proudly together for the event.
“For this event, both Grosse Pointe North and Grosse Pointe South raised money and collected donated gift cards from around GP to give out,” Kowal said. “We also had a speaker from the organization share her story with being a paraplegic working with Athletes Unlimited.”
While South hosted the rivalry game this season, North worked alongside our school to create a wonderful night for everyone involved. The two schools chose this game to be against each other because it truly shows how we are able to unify together as a whole, even when our schools’ rivalries run deep. Even though the game is finished, you are still able to support this organization. Claire Hathaway ‘27 notes that supporting this charity is important to not just their team but all the athletes being supported.
“There is a donation link in both Grosse Pointe South’s Volleyball Instagram bio, along with Grosse Pointe North’s volleyball bio,” Hathaway said. “It is so important to both our schools that we are able to continue to show our support even though the event is technically finished.”
The actual game was nothing short of thrilling. With hard plays from both teams, it kept the game entertaining and fun to watch. Players from both sides were hyped up along with each school’s student sections. Anna Groustra ’28 explains how the pressure of the game was slightly different from their usual.
“Playing North is always so exciting as well as a lot of pressure because they are our school’s rivals,” Grousta said. “Seeing all the people in the student section, though, with their cheers really did keep our energy up though.”
Although the game did not end how the team would’ve wanted, with a 3-1 win by North, it was still a highly successful night for both schools and their charity.
“Performance-wise, during this game, we didn’t play as we were hoping to, but I know all of us left happy knowing we helped support a good cause.” Kowal said.
