As the school year winds down, seniors at PA are engaging in a spirited game of water wars, a tradition that has become a highlight of the final months before graduation. This year, the game is hosted by juniors Maeve Fitzkee and Taryn Riffle, who took over the reins from the previous hosts.
“We were asked to be hosts by the previous hosts,” Fitzkee explained. The transition was smooth, with Fitzkee and Riffle utilizing the existing framework to organize this year’s competition. “We used the same rules and registration form from last year and made a few edits,” Fitzkee noted. The pair dedicated a few hours to updating the necessary materials and preparing for the influx of participants.
Beyond the logistical preparations, Fitzkee and Riffle also manage the game’s social media presence. “We both run the Instagram as well, so we manage the posts that go up with the information on how to register,” Fitzkee said. The Instagram account serves as a central hub for announcements, rules clarifications, and engaging content designed to keep players informed and excited.
Behind the scenes, the hosts are responsible for keeping track of all participants. “We also have to make sure to keep track of everyone on a spreadsheet, such as if they paid and who is still in the game,” Fitzkee added. This meticulous record-keeping ensures the game runs smoothly and fairly for all involved.
Sorting teams and deciding targets also takes a significant amount of time, according to Riffle. “It was for sure a couple hours sorting the teams, deciding targets, and making Instagram posts,” she said. The hosts strive to create a balanced and engaging experience for all players, carefully considering team dynamics and target assignments.
One of the unique aspects of water wars is the immunity item: a watering can. Fitzkee explained the rationale behind this choice: “I came up with the watering can. The immunity item at PA has to be something that the players hold, not wear. I thought it would be fun to do something water related but also creative.” The watering can has added an element of whimsy to the game, with players strategically wielding their immunity items to avoid getting “eliminated.”
With any competition, disagreements are bound to arise, and water wars are no exception. “Occasionally people don’t agree with the calls we make,” Fitzkee admitted. The hosts do their best to adjudicate fairly, but sometimes the evidence is inconclusive. “Unfortunately, sometimes the videos aren’t very clear, and we have to make the final decision based on the rules,” Fitzkee said.
Riffle noted that not everyone is happy with the decisions that are made. “We’ve got a lot of backlash, but mainly because people don’t fully read the rules. Some people are nice, but others aren’t,” she said. Despite the occasional negative feedback, the hosts remain committed to ensuring fair play and upholding the integrity of the game.
To ensure safety and respect for the community, several rules are in place. “Some rules are no trespassing, no playing on VBCPS property, and knowing that hosts have the final call on all decisions,” Fitzkee explained. Riffle echoed this sentiment, adding, “Some basic rules are: no trespassing, you need to be holding the immunity item in your hand for it to count, and the hosts have the final decision!”
Despite the challenges, both Fitzkee and Riffle are enjoying their roles as hosts. “We thought it would be fun. I also like making fun things to post on the Instagram,” Riffle said. Their enthusiasm and dedication have contributed to the success of this year’s water wars, providing a memorable experience for seniors.
