Last night we went to Cam's Cross Country Athletic Banquet. These events are always extremely long and a little boring (for anyone other than the runners themselves). First there was a nice buffet dinner. If I would have gone home after this I would have been entirely content. After dinner there are the list of team accomplishments, and a little rundown of the season itself and then the runner introductions. Cam attends a huge high school - there are many kids. The coach says a name and everyone claps as that particular person walks up to accept their certificate. EVERY PERSON (Boys and Girls) on the freshman and Junior Varsity teams! Name read - clap, clap, clap. That takes a long time. Then when the coach is finished with those he goes on to the Varsity team and any seniors. With these folks he strains himself trying to find some unique or funny story to tell before he says their names. Story, name, clap, clap, clap! Then he announces the special awards for the runners. Award, story, name, clap, clap, clap! Next is the awards for the Booster Club members - with loads of kudos for this help or that help - and then some gifts of "thanks" to be awarded. You would think it would be almost over - wouldn't you?
The time is then turned over to the students! The Senior boys prepared (the word "prepared" is used very loosely here) some (about 6!) skits to thank the Boosters again. Applause. Then the Boys and Girls gave appreciation to the coaches and awarded them and the Boosters with some nostalgic articles. Applause. Then the Junior Girls got up and each one said a little something about a Senior girl (applause for each individual girl) and then presented them with very thoughtful gifts. Then the Junior Boys (including Cam) got up and said something funny or silly about each of the Senior boys (applause for each individual boy) and presented them with a gag gift - hopefully having something to do with the funny or silly thing they said.
Is it over yet you ask? Not a chance! Now there are two speeches - given by two of the Senior Boys. (Applause after each speech). And the finale is the 30 minute slide show put to motivational music! Cory and I were standing by the door at this point. More applause and then (finally) goodbyes.
I understand the need to commemorate a sports season ending. I played sports myself and loved any kind of athletic recognition - but come on, can't these things be streamlined just a little?
1 comment:
I went to one banquet when E was on color guard. Don't need to go again.
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