On March 15, 2024, Holt hosted its 24th annual Swofford game. The game is one of the last big events Holt has before the end of the school years and allows students who may not have been able to play on the court a chance to do so.
“It was just really cool to participate in it. I know it’s been a big thing here and I’ve wanted to play in it since I was a freshman so it was cool to play in it,” student player Elise Bodine (‘24).
After an intense starter, the court was flooded with cowgirls and cowboys, dancing to hit country songs, roping the audience in to the fun performance.
“(The Swofford game is) like the last thing we do for our dance season and it’s a really fun way to end our season. Just making up a short little fun dance with the teachers and being able to just have fun,” Jillian Paddock (‘24) said.
As the game neared it’s end, with teachers and students falling to the floor and the time ticking down second by second, unfortunately the students fell to the teachers once again.
“At the end of the Swofford game I felt we should have won and that the seniors were closer to winning than past years,” said student player Jeremiah Nelson (‘24).
Like many things, the Swofford game has changed over time. The live draft of team players, t-shirt competition and the dance team choreographing the halftime show are just a few of the changes. But one thing always remains the same, the community that it gives back to. With a little over $4,000 raised the scholarship was rewarded to two lucky students to help fund their university costs.
“I like the Swofford event because we raise money for students in our building for scholarships … I think his legacy is great and that it supports kids,” business teacher Emily Ward said.
The game is also serves as a final memory of Holt for both the students and staff leaving.
“That was the goal (winning the game). I don’t like losing. I’ll take another win so I guess that’s 16 to no on my part,” math teacher Todd Davis said.
“Students and faculty are all excited to participate and watch the event,” said science teacher Johnathon Ernst “It is one of the best events at Holt in memory of one of the most influential teachers and coaches Holt has ever had.”
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photos by Kaylei Smith
