The View Issue 6 Vol 17

PG. 12-14

MARCH 12, 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

issue six, volume 17 march 12, 2015

news LENT (NOT THE STUFF IN YOUR POCKET)

features

SLOW START

opinion

THE VIEW STAFF editors

4

print editor-in-chief KYLE VANICE

10

art director VIVIAN BROCKMAN

16

FLIPSIDE: FEMALE FANATICS

sports

MARCH MADNESS

21

features editor ERIN STUMP sports editor NICK CLAASSEN web editor-in-chief CALEB FENNER social media director DARIA GHASEMI

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

With every spring comes new life. When the weather starts to get warmer and the days start to get longer students and staff experience an awakening. A boost of energy fills the school as everyone anticipates the end of the school year and a warm summer.

New things can happen in the spring, STUCO will even host state over spring break (page 3). With a spring awakening can come bigger ideas brought to light, like the issues of equal rights for all (pages 12-13, 14).

South’s fields and courts will be given new life as well this spring, with new, exciting seasons for all (pages 18,19,20). All aspects of South are given a youthful vibrancy in the spring. There are only 72 days left in the year and they are to be used to their full potential.

Kyle Vanice, Editor-In-Chief

reporters

ANDRES ACOSTA SHELBY ERSKINE MORGAN GREER ALLIE HICKEY COLBY HORSTMANN CONNOR JONES EMARY LANGHORN LEXI MADDOX RYAN POWERS PATRICK ROBEY ALEX ROTHERS ADELE ROYLE ALIZA RUSSELL BRADY SMITH JAKE SPRINGER AUBREE WILKERSON EMMA WOODSON

adviser

MEGAN PALMER

2

PHSVIEW.COM

>>NO SCHOOL FRIDAY, MARCH 13TH, THE DAY BEFORE SPRING BREAK

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT by

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bright colors.

STUCO is also coordinating a giant puzzle, in which each school will have their own piece to decorate.

This goes along with the theme of creativity and individuality, but still working together as a whole.

“There will be some cool stuff going on including a pep rally, different workshops, guest speakers, and a DJ,” said Stout.

Having fun is a big part of the convention, but STUCO students will also be working hard in various workshops throughout the convention. The workshops cover a variety of topics, including new ideas for decorations, fundraising, and how to make a student section like the Rage Cage.

Although putting on the convention has been time consuming and often challenging, Barnhart said that there is a lot to be excited about.

“I’m looking forward to it happening,” said Adkins, “and being in the middle of it.”

es

hat combines a color powder dance party, keynote speakers, leadership training and a pep rally?

The 2015 STUCO State convention, hosted at South this year, features all of these.

The convention runs March 19-21, but planning has been underway for months. With over 150 schools from around the state participating, the convention will include between 1,000-1,500 students.

After campaigning against other schools, PHS STUCO was chosen to host the State convention this year.

“Our kids hosted the District convention last year, and this was the next challenge,” said Sarah Adkins, STUCO advisor. “After this, they want to place a National bid for 2018.”

The purpose of the convention is to allow all the different Student Councils in Missouri to come together in a fun environment to exchange and develop new ideas that they can use to improve their own schools.

“We’re doing a lot of work for the Missouri Association, but through that, we’re getting ideas to bring back for the student body,” said Cole Reser, junior and Secretary of State.

There has been a lot of behind-the-scenes preparation to make the event happen. After winning the campaign, STUCO had to come up with a theme and decorations for the event, as well as find housing and coordinate meals for the 1,000 students and STUCO administators that will be coming in for the event.

Although it created a lot more work for STUCO, Adkins said that using host families for housing makes the convention more accessible to all kids, creating a rich and diverse environment that you wouldn’t get anywhere else.

“It’s important for the student body to know how much of an honor this is this is to host State and how hard we’ve worked on it,” said Elif Barnhart, sophomore.

The theme for the convention is “Leadership Outside the Lines” which focuses on creative thinking.

Mackenzie Stout, senior and STUCO president, said that the decorations include abstract lines and

RY

W

sid Out

PHS STUCO prepares to host the State convention for the first time ever.

These STUCO members bid last year to host this year’s State convention.

>>“AT LEAST 800 STUDENTS WILL BE IN ATTEDANCE AT THE STATE CONVENTION.” -HOPE MAYO, SENIOR

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NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

LENT

What’s on your forehead? A deeper look into the meaning of the Catholic season Lent and Ash Wednesday

not just the stuff in your pocket.

by ALLIE HICKEY

For all those who are Catholic, it is that time of God sacrificed his only son, Jesus Christ, to die on year again. Feb. 18 marked the beginning of Lent, the cross so followers of Christ may be able to live in the season associated with Easter in the Catholic peace. During Lent, Catholics repay this gesture by religion. During Lent, it is tradition that members of sacrificing something themselves. the Catholic Church give up something for 40 days, Every Friday during Lent, all Catholics are Feb. 18 (Ash Wednesday) to Easter, April 5. required to give up meat. During this time period, The tradition of giving something up is not only Catholics are supposed to give something up; for this religion. Many Baptists, Presbyterians and however, some people choose not to. The no meat general Christians give up something, too.

Friday rule is a way to encourage giving something “This year I’m giving up up even if it isn’t seven days a pizza, ice cream and sweets,” “LAST YEAR I GAVE UP SPEEDING. week. As Catholics grow up, the said senior Sarah Carney, I KNOW EVERY SPEED LIMIT BY things that one might give up who happens to be Christian. mature as well.

HEART BETWEEN GLADSTONE Some people use this “Last year I gave up AND PARK HILL SOUTH” opportunity not so much to speeding. I know every focus on the religious aspect speed limit by heart between of Lent, but to better themselves as a person.

Gladstone and Park Hill South,” said security guard Things that are commonly given up by high school William Sobbe. students are a favorite sweet, soda or simply one’s Lent is an amazing opportunity for those who guilty pleasure. are trying to break a bad habit. Nail biting, cussing, Senior Andrew Richards said, “I will be trying alcohol and even smoking are bad habits that to give up chocolate chip cookies. Whether I will are often given up during Lent. It doesn’t seem succeed or not is questionable.” like it would work, but after 40 days of not doing Sticking with your choice can often be difficult. something, it becomes very common to not do it.

Lots of people who take on this challenge may not Although Lent lasts only 40 days, the sacrifices realize how much what they gives up plays into their people make have a much longer impact. The bad everyday life. To some students, they just think of habits are given up are most likely broken. Finishing this 40 day period as a way to diet or lose weight, the Lenten season knowing that you toughed through which for non-Catholics, is a good way to view it. the 40 days that you gave up something is quite an However, the reason for the season is much more accomplishment for many at South. than that. Roman Catholicism religion believes that

I GAVE UP...

“FAST FOOD.” BAILEE HUDSON, SOPHOMORE

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“CHIPS. IT’S HARD, I LOVE CHIPS.” CHRISTIAN HOLFERTY, FRESHMAN

“VIDEO GAMES, ONLY AT HOME, THOUGH.” DAVIS EHLERS, SOPHOMORE

“SIMPLE CARBS, SO PASTAS, BREADS, YOU KNOW THE GOOD STUFF.” KAELA JUAREZ, SENIOR

>>”I GAVE UP SODA, ITS BEEN HARD BECAUSE OF THE TEMPTATION AT WORK,” SAID EMILY WALKER, SENIOR

30

ROLE CALL. Just kidding, that would take too long considering there are over 30 main roles in this year’s spring play. An unusual production new to both South students and eventually the audience members, South’s theatre department will be performing their rendition of “30 Reasons Not To Be in a Play.”

“I usually like plays that have main roles, but after seeing how this play is set up, it works that there aren’t any,” said Stella Garibaldi, sophomore. “A lot more people have the chance to be involved.”

By offering an opportunity to more students than the usual play or musical, the cast turned out to consist of 36 members, each with a main role. Of the 36 members, there are 5 seniors, 14 juniors, 3 sophomores and an unexpected 14 freshman involved.

Multiple leads were not the only thing attracting students to audition for the play. Unlike the fall musical, there will be no singing involved; therefore students who have a stronger passion toward acting came forward.

“With this play being a comedy, you’re going to see a different crowd made up of people that might not have a singing talent, but are very good at portraying comedic skills through their acting,” said Colton Richards, sophomore.

If you saw South’s “Seussical the Musical” this past fall, you can expect more differences on stage than just a lack of singing.

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

REASONS TO SEE THE SPRING PLAY

“It’s definitely a much smaller production”, said Anne Price, freshman.

Instead of having to worry about different costumes for each character being portrayed, the cast will be wearing one costume the entire show. The actors will be wearing a simple t-shirt and jeans to create a more relaxed environment for the audience.

The set will also be a lot simpler so the audience will focus on the acting and not so much on the stage set up. ”We are focusing on the pure laugh behind it all.” said Alley Pettey, senior.

However, the performers remain just as anxious and hard working as they normally would, especially since most students were given multiple parts in the show. You will see several students recurring in different scenes throughout the performance, some up to five times, and with each appearance a new character.

“I’ve never been involved in anything like it before,” said Tyler Espinosa, junior. “I’m sure the audience will have the same reaction.”

The show debuts on Thursday, March 12, and the performances will continue on March 13 and 14. Although these dates do run into Spring Break, coming back to see this production, “30 Reasons Not To Be In a Play,” will be well worth your time.

“I feel bad for the people that won’t be able to see it,” said Richards, “because it’s definitely a laugh.”

by ALIZA RUSSELL & EMMA WOODSON

1 A LAUGH 2 3 4 5 SCHOOL SPIRIT 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13IT’LL BE GOOD 14 SPIRIT 15

SOMETHING TO DO OVER SPRING BREAK A PLACE TO GO WITH FRIENDS

A PLACE TO SEE FRIENDS PERFORM

SUPPORT TALENTED SOUTH STUDENTS SUPPORT THEATER DEPARTMENT

LAUGH UNTIL YOU PEE YOUR PANTS

SOMETHING TO DO OVER SPRING BREAK YOUR MOM WANTS YOU TO

YOU CAN SEE YOUR TEACHERS THEATER SEATS ARE CUSIONY

YOUR UNCLE IS IN TOWN

>>THE SPRING PLAY WILL HAVE THE BIGGEST MAIN CAST IN SOUTH HISTORY, WITH OVER 30 MEMBERS

16 17 ONLY $5 18 19 20 IT’S WARM IN THERE 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 YOU HAVE NOTHING BETTER TO DO

TO GO TO SEE THE PLAY

SOMETHING TO DO OVER SPRING BREAK

NEVER BEFORE SEEN PRODUCTION

YOUR FRIENDS WORKED HARD ON THIS

THERE MIGHT BE COOKIES DURING INTERMISSION POSSIBILITY YOU COULD ROLL WITH LAUGHTER GOOD LINES WILL BE READ

SOMETHING TO DO OVER SPRING BREAK STUDENTS ARE VERY TALENTED

YOUR CHEEKS WILL HURT FROM SMILING IT BRINGS YOU JOY

SPRING PLAY ONCE A YEAR

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NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

how to break

SPRING FEVER Are you at your breaking point, and cannot take school any longer?

post spring break motivation

At some point in our high school career we all need a break. Thankfully, Spring break is just around the corner. Some look forward to that break more so than others. Either way, transitioning back from break can be a hardship. By choice or not, high schoolers have expectations to be present after returning from break, and back to reality.

“You have one future and your future is dependent upon your present. You cannot build a house unless you have a solid foundation and that is what you are doing, break or no break, you are building a rock solid foundation. If you let go at the end you are building your house on sand, and it will crumble,” said Kirk Henry, social studies.

No one said it was easy going back to school after break, and lacking motivation can begin to take a toll.

Motivation starts with planning a goal for yourself to accomplish at a certain period of time. Goals are a good way of reminding us why we are motivated in the first place. Even after a goal is accomplished, you should set high expectations for yourself to remain carrying out that original goal.

“My reason to stay motivated is the fact that colleges still look at your grades even after you’ve been accepted,” said Hannah Kovar, senior.

Having something that you enjoy in your daily routine can prevent you from getting burned out. When

6

it comes to the day in and day out, there is not much time for change, so reward yourself. Again, this may not be the peak of your life, but it is a requirement to move onto the next chapter of your life. Rewards are a good way to keep yourself motivated. For many students, having something after school to look forward to help to get them through their routines.

“Having after-school activities to go to, or having weekend plans, maybe school events on Friday nights or something fun to do with friends, keeps me pretty motivated,” said Madison Guerra, sophomore.

Getting off routine can have an effect in the transition coming back to school. Nine hours of sleep each night is proven amount that allows teenagers to function the best. Anything under or over can cause drowsiness and grumpy attitudes. The amount of sleep you receive is up to you, but keeping a routine may make transitioning back to school from break easier.

To continuously maintain a positive attitude is easier said than done. There are setbacks that happen to everyone. From just waking up in a crappy mood, to a bad day, or something not going the way you planned; it can release negative energy. At the end of the day we are the ones capable of controlling the mindset we are in, so do not dwell on the negative.

Things happen, just take the punches and grow from it.

“It’s a new day, I don’t carry things usually from one day to the next, and everyone has got a bad day, things happen. You’ve just got to move on,” said Kim Hendricks, social studies.

Everyone is capable of many things and staying motivated after break is one of them. It truly is just about keeping a positive outlook on things, especially things that are out of your control and cannot be changed. But you are in control of your outlook, so why not take advantage of it?

by MORGAN GREER

SENIOR

JUNIOR

“HATERS ARE MY MOTIVATORS.” -HANNAH KOVAR

“#BEANATHLETE (KENT CRAMER).”

-BRANDON RICE

1.40 SCHOOL DAYS UNTIL GRADUATION 2.40 DAYS UNTIL YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO BE UP BEFORE THE CRACK OF DAWN

1.A COUPLE MONTHS AWAY FROM BEING THE TOP DOGS 2.TOTAL CONTROL OF THE TOP LEVEL OF THE CAFETERIA TABLES (IN A FEW MONTHS)

PHSVIEW.COM >>SENIORITIS IS A TERM MAINLY USED TO DESCRIBE THE DECREASED MOTIVATION TOWARD STUDIES DISPLAYED BY STUDENTS WHO ARE NEARING THE END OF HIGH SCHOOL - SUSSLE.ORG

Shape it Up Perfect the Vanilla Milkshake

PLANKS

All you need is vanilla ice cream and milk to make the base.

Easy workouts you can mix in with push ups and sit ups that you can do anywhere

SIDE PLANKS

(SHAMR CK) SHAKE IT UP

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

Add Peppermint Extract Peppermint extract goes a long way, remember, so don’t overdo it in your vanilla milkshake. Best proportions for a shamrock shake: 2 cups vanilla ice cream 3/4 cup of milk 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

DIPS

Add Food Coloring As the final touch to your Shamrock Shake, add up to eight drops of green food coloring.

by COLBY HORSTMANN

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS

FROSH

“IN THE FUTURE I LOOK FORWARD TO MAKING FAT STACKS.” -NOAH SALSBURY

“A FEW MORE MONTHS BEFORE I CAN START SLAYING AGAIN.” -JOE CUMMINGS

1.HALFWAY MARKING POINT FROM GRADUATING 2.A COUPLE MONTHS AWAY FROM BEING AN UPPERCLASSMEN

REASONS: 1. 3+ MORE YEARS OF CHICKEN NUGGET WEDNESDAY 2. A FEW MORE MONTHS AND YOU WILL NO LONGER BE CLASSIFIED AS “FRESH-MEAT”

>>SINCE THE SHAMROCK SHAKE LAUNCHED IN 1970, MORE THAN 60 MILLION SHAMROCK SHAKES HAVE BEEN SOLD IN MCDONALD’S NATIONWIDE.-FOXNEWS.COM

post spring break motivation

SOPH

PHSVIEW.COM

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NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

CHIEFLY

ROYAL

BARBEQUE; BEST IN AMERICA.” – KIRK HENRY, SOCIAL STUDIES

“IT’S THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.”-AVERY MILLER, SENIOR

CLOSE TO A

WORLD SERIES TITLE –EMILY DITTO, SOPHOMORE

“WAY BETTER SPORTS TEAMS THAN ST. LOUIS.” –GAGE MARROW, SOPHOMORE

BEST

KANSAS CITY WEATHER IS THE

CRAZIEST

“KANSAS CITY HAS THE

BARBEQUE.” –CHASE PUTNAM, SOPHOMORE

NELSON- ATKINS “It’s one of the hidden treasures that we take for granted; it is just so beautiful,” said Nicole Cummings, junior.

Many people have heard of the Nelson- Atkins Art Museum but have never been to it. This museum is located by the Plaza.

It is known for it neoclassical architecture and extensive collection of Asian art. NelsonAtkins is free to get into, and there is a beautiful little cafe on the inside if the family is hungry.

“It is super cool. There are a lot of different exhibits and I try to go as much as I can because they change so often,” said Abby Cogswell, junior.

KC 6

in words

–ALLISON ROBASKA, JUNIOR

CITY OF,

“

FOUNTAINS

OVERFLOWING WITH ADVENTURES.” –TREVOR ALLISON, MATH

“KANSAS CITY MORE LIKE COLD CITY.” –JAMES BYRD, SENIOR

THE ZOO Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, otherwise known as the Omaha Zoo will be a bonding experience to remember. It is something different to do if you’re looking for a day trip. Although it’s a two and a half hour drive away, the trip is well worth your time. The zoo is known for having some of the largest exhibits in the world. It is fairly cheap to get into: about $14.00 per person.

“I would recommend going to the Omaha Zoo because they have so many more exhibits than the KC Zoo. It is more exciting, plus you can stay the night in the aquarium,” said Madi Minor, junior.

CITY MARKET The City Market is a riverfront neighborhood located just over the Broadway Bridge in downtown Kansas City. In the city market, there are many places to get fresh meals, tons of locally grown produce and buy little gifts for yourself on the way. Flower, jewelry and antique shops are abundant here, and filled with trinkets.

“It is a super charming place to hang out and they really support local businesses,” said Callie Colvin, art.

This is a perfect Saturday morning activity if you are trying to get out of the house and enjoy the nice weather while on a budget.

SPRING BREAK

KC STAYCATION Staying in town for spring break may seem boring, but KC is rich in museums, attractions, food and plenty more to do. by AUBREE WILKERSON

8

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>>”THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN KANSAS CITY.” -COURTNEY QUINN, SENIOR

FOOD CRUISE

A simple food cruise with the family would be a fun filled day while trying new things. Go out to eat for every meal at places no one in your family has been.

Some options that not many people have heard of and are excellent would include, breakfast: Blue Bird Bistro (Westside), and Cascone’s (Picture Hills). Lunch options: Kome Sushi (Parkville), Manny’s Mexican Restaurant (downtown), and the Taco Truck (parking lot of World Liquor). Dinner would include: Chewy’s (downtown) and Port Fonda (Westport).

“Port Fonda has a Hispanic vibe, but it’s more artistic and authentic.

You always see hipsters in there,” said Megan Carson, art.

Don’t miss a single play of Northwest Missouri State University championship football!

Listen on the radio

Northwest

KXCV, 90.5 FM Maryville (Bearcat Radio Network’s flagship station) KRNW, 88.9 FM Chillicothe KKWK, 100.1 FM Cameron KCXL, 1140 AM Liberty KCXL, 102.9 FM Kansas City KMA, 960 AM Shenandoah (select games)

Listen on the web

Bearcats

www.kxcv.org www.northwestbearcats.com

Listen on your smartphone

Download the NPR iPhone app or the TuneIn Radio app (via KXCV)

Bring this coupon for Free Appetizer with the purchase of a Large Specicality Pizza!

SCP IS PROUD TO SUPPORT PARK HILL SOUTH

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

SLOW

Park Hill School District’s lack of sports in middle school

start

For athletes in the Park Hill School District, the first chance to represent their school does not come until ninth grade. The only exception is middle school basketball. Students who do not play basketball rely on separate club teams to improve their athletic ability until their freshman year of high school.

In contrast, middle schools in the North Kansas City School District offer basketball, cross country, track, and volleyball. Lee’s Summit School District’s middle schools offer the previously mentioned sports in addition to football, cheer, and wrestling. These two districts are not alone in offering middle school sports.

In fact, most teams that South competes against have been playing for their school’s team for a year or two longer than South’s teams.

According to New Mark Middle School’s athletics page, “North Kansas City Schools believe that interscholastic athletics and activities are important supplements to the secondary curricular program and are vital to a student’s total middle school educational experience.”

Does this mean that South students are missing out on an important chance to become accustomed to participating in school sports before being thrown into the high school sports program? Jordan Hammond, a senior track runner and volleyball player, thought that adding middle school sports would be a positive change.

Hammond said, “Kids would start sooner so they

would be more in tune with their sport by high school.”

Starting school sports at the middle school level could have a big impact on team sports in high school.

Athletes would have an opportunity to form bonds with their future teammates, allowing for a smoother transition into high school sports.

“We could play together longer and work as a team early on,” Sadie Grigsby, a junior soccer player, explained.

The simple fact that South’s opponents have already had more experience before their high school careers have even begun could mean that South’s athletics start off at a disadvantage.

“The key to getting better at things is experience.

In track, we have had athletes who never participated before that have to find an event. That lost development time sometimes limits athletes from reaching their full potential,” said Andy Keefer, head girls track coach.

Two additional years of experience can make a world of difference in any sport. Without sports in middle school, this is a big setback that the Park Hill School District’s athletes face. Each year a brand new team is built, with freshman that are not familiar with the majority of their teammates. For this reason, it seems like South athletes are a bit behind when it comes to working as a team.

However, would the cost of offering middle school sports create a problem and would middle schoolers even be interested in participating? Future Panthers at Lakeview Middle School expressed their opinions on the matter. Etinosa Reuben, an eighth grader, said that he would participate in middle school sports if he had the option.

“I like playing a lot of sports and it helps me to think and teaches me life skills,” said Reuben.

Anthony Bell, another Lakeview eighth grader, explained that he thought having sports in middle school would get him ready for high school and challenge him. Similar to his fellow classmates, Ryan Summa saw the possible advantages to adding sports in middle school.

Summa said, “I believe it helps students support sports early and gets more people involved.”

In the end, many Park Hill South students and coaches support the idea of starting sports in middle school, but the actual impact of implementing sports at Lakeview is impossible to predict.

by LEXI MADDOX

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>> THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR EDUCATION STATISTICS STATES, “EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES PROVIDE A CHANNEL FOR REINFORCING THE LESSONS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM.”

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT South’s debate team prepares for National and State qualifiers anywhere else.

“We have a wide range of events like storytelling, improv duet acting, and radio speaking where a person talks about current events and imitates a radio broadcast,” said Grant Pace, junior.

The debate team is just like other teams at South in the sense that they work together as well as they work individually. They are also similar because to them, they are more than just a team; they are also a family.

“We help each other build cases and we lean on each other like a family,” said Owen Seymour, freshman.

By pairing up varsity members, members of the debate team that have been on the team for at least a year, with novices, students who are new to debate, the team is able to gain strength and experience from the varsity members giving pointers to the novices.

“A lot of times, varsity helps novice by helping them find evidence and information and talk about tournaments,” said Lee.

As the season is winding down for the debate and forensics team, they prepare for both State and National qualifiers, the most crucial point in the debate team’s season. Last year, the National tournament in Overland Park was fairly close to South compared to other years.

“We only take the top four people in each category to the National qualifiers and everyone who goes is highly stressed and hoping that they will advance to Nationals,” said Pace. “It’s very different from regular tournaments because if you lose more than two rounds then you are out and because instead of the judges posting who will advance they post up the people who are out.”

Even though the debate team’s ultimate goal is to go to and do well at Nationals, they find progress and gaining confidence to be just as important.

“We care more about personal improvement, the learning experience and enjoying debate,” said Pace, “than doing it just for the trophies.”

NOT

JUST

ARGUING

Everyone knows the debate team as the team that gets to put their arguing skills to good use.

However, there is much more to the debate and forensics team than the stereotypes about them.

When someone starts to talk about the debate club, one’s mind pictures two people going back and forth battling over a topic, but there is a whole other side to the debate club called forensics where debaters can act and do a wide variety of events.

“I prefer performing over debating. I tried debating, but there just wasn’t as much of a thrill for me as there is when I perform,” said Angel Lee, sophomore.

Debate and forensics tournaments include events such as humorous and dramatic interpretations of pieces (where a person acts out a scene or monologue), original oratory (where a person delivers an original speech on a subject of their choice), duo interpretation (similar to humorous and dramatic interpretations except with two people), and many more competitive events that you couldn't find

SOUTH’S TOP DEBATERS JAKE MAZEITIS SENIOR

2,091 POINTS

GRANT PACE JUNIOR

1,372 POINTS

EMMA ARCHER JUNIOR

847 POINTS

KEEGAN JUSTICE JUNIOR

983 POINTS

QUENTIN LEIVE SENIOR

834 POINTS

>>DEBATE WILL COMPETE IN THE MSHSSA DISTRICT TOURNAMENT, FOR ALL EVENTS, ON MARCH 20 AND 21.

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”F

eminism has nothing to do with women,” said Madi Loescher, junior. “Feminism is just the idea that there is equality amongst everyone, whether they be male, female, gay, transgender, bisexual, or straight.”

Feminism is defined in Merriam-Webster’s dictionary as the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. In today’s world there are many topics that go into the issue of women’s rights like the wage gap, female representation, gender stereotypes and images of women and men in the media.

“I think feminists are really people who just want to see the genders have an equal shot. If that’s the case then I am a feminist, in the fact that all women should have an equal chance along with all males,” said Jennifer Mattson, Social Studies.

One of the biggest issues of the feminism movement is gender inequality in the workplace, specifically the wage gap between men and women.

Believe it or not, women in the United States and other countries around the world have surpassed men in educational achievement. According to a study done

by Yale, women outnumber men in global university attendance, graduation rates and IQ scores.

There lies no problem in the educational achievement of females. So why is it that on average, women only make 77 cents to every dollar that a man earns, according to the institute for Women’s Policy Research?

“If there’s a single mom with three kids, because her husband walked out, and she’s trying to work three jobs while making 77 cents to every man’s dollar, how is she supposed to defend for her kids? How is she supposed to put food on the table?” said Loescher.

Some may say the problem is that women tend to choose lower paying jobs. However, women face a pay gap in nearly every occupation. According to the American Association of University Women, women face a lower pay than men in female-dominated, genderbalanced, and male-dominated occupations.

“Women really do want to have careers, and they do an excellent job, and if they’re trained the same way as a male, they should be paid the same way as a male,” said Mattson.

Even if it were the case that women tend to choose lower paying jobs, this could still be blamed on the patriarchal culture of the world, which says that men shall hold the higher paying jobs.

“If feminism by definition is that men and women are inherently equal, and for the same services should receive the same pay, and should be treated the same before the law...well then sign me up, I’m a feminist.” said Kirk Henry, Social Studies.

Henry explained that in education, it would be “quite illegal and darn appropriately so” for a male teacher to be paid any more than a female teacher, if they had the same years of service and the same level of education.

Gender stereotypes also greatly affect women’s rights.

Gender stereotypes begin the second the doctor says, “it’s a boy!” or “it’s a girl!” When a couple learns they’re having a girl, they go out about buy pink wallpaper, frilly dresses, dolls and a easy-bake-oven. Parents are already setting their daughters up to become the stereotypical woman who wears dresses, takes care of kids and prepares food.

Mattson believes that since the 1950s, society has had the idea that women are not smart, and cannot go beyond household and family roles. Having this stereotype in people’s minds causes women to be viewed as a lower level citizen, which is the main problem according to Mattson.

A few examples of female stereotypes coming from healthguidance.org are: women are quieter than men and are not meant to speak out, women are to do as they are told--never to be in charge, and women are supposed to look pretty and be looked at.

Men have stereotypes too, also from healthguidance. org, like: men are in charge and have the power to tell

by ALEX ROTHERS

2.25 1 women what to do, men are acceptably lazy and messy, men are aggressive and men good at sports.

While the male stereotypes have a lot less negative connotation. it is clear that the female stereotypes are degrading and may hold girls back in a way.

“Just because you’re a girl doesn’t mean that you can’t be faster, be stronger, be smarter, or be more intelligent, even though a boy tells you that it’s not attractive.” said Loescher.

Many gender stereotypes are seen in advertisements.

Women are generally shown advertising cosmetics, kitchen products, or housekeeping items, while men often advertise cars, hardware, beer, sports and businesses.

Also in commercials women’s full figures are often shown, while what’s shown of men are typically close ups. According to krytyka.org, when a full figure is shown, the viewer’s estimation of the subject’s intelligence is lowered. However, a close-up shot in a commercial evokes a more positive, intelligent association.

“I think people just kind of assume that the woman should be the one cooking, baking, the stay at home mom, but I live in a family where its equal, everyone does the same thing, my mom works, my dad works, my dad cooks, my mom cooks, my dad does the laundry just as much as my mom does the laundry,” said Bjorn Carlson.

There are many degrading stereotypes of women in movies, as well. According to a study done by USC, under 15 percent of characters in films who are business executives, political figures, or science, technology, engineering and/or math (STEM) employees are women.

Another finding by USC was that male characters outnumber females as attorneys and judges (13 to 1), professors (16 to 1) and doctors (5 to 1).

“These stereotypes affect women’s rights in the fact that they take away their rights unconsciously, because that’s what women have been taught to believe since

they were younger,” said Loescher.

Though some gender stereotypes in advertisements, films, and society in general are virtually impossible to ignore, in order to break from the patriarchal society, people must look beyond them and focus on the achievement of individuals, regardless of gender.

“If we are going to be a truly equal society, we must make one another’s conditions our own. We must support one another in our needs,” said Henry.

Early on, images from the media of what ideal men and women are supposed to look like are placed in girls’ and boys’ heads. Women and men subconsciously want to shape their bodies to look like these images and aren’t satisfied until they get there.

Research shows that the goals set before a woman are more inflexible than a man’s. According to Social Issues Research Centre, the ideal image for women shown in media is achievable by less than 5 percent of female population. This is just in terms of weight and height. If ideal shape, face, hair, smile, etc., were added in, it would be 1 percent of the female population.

Men also have plenty of image expectations of their own. Boys are held to the standard to be tall, muscular and dominant. This is placed in many boy’s heads early on by pushing them to do sports and showing them that they should dominate in this aspect of life.

“If men don’t have to be aggressive in order to be accepted, women won’t feel compelled to be submissive.

If men don’t have to control, women won’t have to be controlled.” said Emma Watson, as part of the HeForShe campaign launch.

Many boys and girls constantly push themselves to achieve dominant or passive looks. Most people do not realize they are doing it, but it’s subconsciously stamped into our brains.

“Men and women’s capabilities can compliment each other when used equally,” says Loescher, “but as soon as one rises above the other, you’ve got nothing.”

Graphic’s Sources: The Huffington Post. aauw.org, and womanking.org

FEMINISM (noun) fem路i路nism The theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes

by BRADY SMITH

MOVIE MADNESS

KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE H ollywood is a place filled with clichés. In almost every movie, there is something you’ve seen or heard before. And oftentimes, that makes the movie slightly more dull and significantly more predictable. However, when comedies embrace these clichés, it can make the movie more appealing. This is precisely what “Kingsman: The Secret Service” does so well.

We’re introduced to one of Kingsman’s (a secret network of British spies) agents, Harry Hart (Colin Firth) on a mission somewhere in the Middle East. He and a few other agents, Merlin (Mark Strong), and two rookie recruits are after a global terrorist. During the mission, one of the rookies sacrifices himself to protect the group of agents. In turn, Harry feels indebted to the man’s family and makes a visit to see the former agent’s widow and her young son, Eggsy (Taron Egerton). Hart delivers a medal with a phone number on the back, and if the family ever needs anything, they are to call that number.

Flash forward 17 years later, and the scientist, James Arnold has been kidnapped by billionaire philanthropist, Richmond Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson).

Although a rescue mission is attempted by a lone Kingsman agent, Lancelot (Jack Davenport), his attempt fails. Valentine returns to the United States and meets with various figures involved in government around the world.

Meanwhile, back in London we see Eggsy has grown up to be a reckless, hot-tempered young adult.

He’s very intelligent, but has seemingly thrown away all his potential to drink a pint at the pub and cause trouble. After he and his friends steal a car and run

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

by CALEB FENNER

from the police, Eggsy is arrested. He remembers to call the number that agent Hart has given him, and this is where the story takes off.

Hart sees potential in Eggsy, the same potential he saw in his father. Eggsy is entered in a job interview, essentially, to become the next Kingsman. The competition is tough, and the other competitors seem to have been groomed their whole lives to become an agent, yet Eggsy keeps up with them. Without spoiling too much, the new Kingsman is going to be expected to help save the world.

Egerton is simply awesome as Eggsy (what a great name by the way). He’s got serious talent and embraces the role with a certain charisma that makes him likable.

He’s got a certain swagger, that’s the only way to describe it. Firth is his typical charming self, and is more than believable as the gentleman spy. However, Samuel L. steals the damn show. The irony of his character is one of the best things about it. Valentine is an evil mastermind that freaks out at the sight of blood.

He also is very polite and speaks with a lisp. Not typical for your average super villain. The rest of the large cast is very likable, especially Mark Strong.

The humor is fantastic. Without it, this film could be a dud. But the film makes fun of itself, much in the same way that “22 Jump Street” made fun of cop movies.

This sets up an always fun atmosphere, even during the violent scenes.

Instead of a slick and sexy spy flick, “Kingsman: The Secret Service” is a crude and violent one. Because of this, it’s also one of the best spy movies in years.

RUN TIME: 129 MIN.

DIRECTOR: MATTHEW VAUGHN

BOX OFFICE EARNINGS

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CAST MEMBERS: COLIN FIRTH SAMUEL L. JACKSON TARON EGERTON MICHAEL CAINE

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NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

FLIPSIDE:FEMALE FANATICS

scan here to see South students sports knowledge>>

Sports: the topic most girls should not voice their “opinion” about. This has always been a heated topic between the two sexes. To guys, females’ opinions on sports could not be more irrelevant and can actually be pretty irritating.

Most girls couldn’t name half the positions for any given sport but they’re all over twitter saying “OMG I love the Patriots!!” during the Super Bowl, or “Go Spurs!!! #MyTeam #BeenThereSinceDayOne” during the NBA finals. Whenever a girl gets called out on being a bandwagon or not knowing anything about the sport, they all say the same thing: “I don’t have to know everything about a team to like them.” That statement is extremely annoying for two reasons, the first one being that nobody has mentioned knowing even close to everything about the team, and secondly knowing about a team and its players is exactly what being a fan is.

Fan is short for fanatic. Fanatic is defined as a person with an extreme and uncritical enthusiasm or zeal. Therefore, you can’t call

yourself a fan of a team if the only people on the team that you know are the star players you saw on the news. Being a fan means that you believe very strongly and have an extreme love for the team. YOUR ARGUMENT IS INVALID. Now don’t get me wrong. If you’re a girl and you can actually have an intelligent conversation with me about a sports team, then you gain a lot of respect, but if you can only name one or two players and hardly understand the sport, please keep your opinion to yourself. All of these girls during the World Series suddenly became Eric Hosmer fans, but if you had asked them who he was during the regular season, 80 percent of them wouldn’t have been able to tell you who he was. Thats what annoys us guys. ALMOST ALL GIRLS ARE BANDWAGON FANS. Seriously, there is about 0.000001% of girls that are real fans of even one sports team. Girls, stop tweeting or voicing uneducated opinions, or don’t get hurt when guys call you out and make you look dumb. BY COLBY HORSTMANN

“What college did LeBron play basketball at?”

Lol, good one guys. This is a question I've been asked one too many times by that idiot who thinks that I don't know what I’m talking about.

Sports is the topic guys think girls should have absolutely nothing to do with.

Guys sound like dramatic middle schoolers when they are talking about how annoyed they are about girls liking sports. Girls can like a sport or a specific team and not know every detail about them.

There’s no rule that said girls have to be experts on the topic, and honestly if most guys were harassed about knowing everything about sports, I guarantee most aren't as smart as they think. Yes, I can still like the Miami Heat and not have to know what size of shoe Dwyane Wade wears.

Bandwagon is such an overused term.

Now, I agree that you’re a bandwagon fan if you're from Kansas City and are cheering on the Seahawks. But, if your city doesn't have a sports team like basketball or hockey, then you are free to like any team you choose. If you choose to like a winning team, that’s not a bandwagon if your city doesn't have a team for you to like. Why choose to like team if they are bad and boring to watch?

Guys need to hop off girls who like other teams that are good. If you hate seeing them

tweet about it, then there is a simple solution: unfollow them. It is an easy way to stop you from getting so fired up and causing you to freak out since their opinion on sports affects you so much. If you still can't handle that and need even more assistance with your temper, your second solution may be to block them.

But guys, we get it, worry about yourself because girls having an opinion on sports isn’t affecting you at all.

Guys are very contradictory about their views on girls and sports. You get mad when we watch sports and tweet about it, yet when guys grow up (if they ever do) they will realize they will want their wife to be able to sit down and relax on Sunday and watch football with them, not complain about their TV time.

Obviously guys are prone to know more about sports because that’s just their stereotype. Boys will always be more interested in knowing about sports and keeping up with the latest news about it. But, that doesn't mean that girls can't sit down and enjoy sports, too.

So, next time you think about complaining about a girl interested or tweeting about sports think, Does this really affect you personally? Go ahead, hit us girls with that unfollow if t hat will get you to peacefully move on with your life.

16 PHSVIEW.COM

by DARIA GHASEMI

>> ACCORDING TO ROPER CENTER, BOTH MALE AND FEMALE FANS ARE MORE COMPETITIVE, SUCCESSS-DRIVEN, ACTIVE, ADVENTUROUS, AND SOCIAL THAN THEIR NON-FAN COUNTERPARTS

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

TAKE 3: Yoga

by SHELBY ERSKINE

Zona Yoga

Zona Yoga was fantastic, I loved it. It’s located in Zona Rosa, so I was a little worried about parking, but it’s by a parking garage so it was perfect. The windows of the studio are heavily tinted, so you don’t have to worry about shoppers peeking in on you, which is nice. The inside is adorable. They have hanging lanterns and it’s just decorated really cute and vintage-like. The studio is very clean and the music was extremely relaxing. The woman who was working was such a sweet lady.

She was very helpful and funny. A single class there is $15.00, which is pricy, but their monthly rates aren’t bad. I think it would be a good investment.

They have many different styles of classes, including some warmer classes (about 80 degrees), but the one I went to was called vinyasa flow. It was a good workout, but super relaxing at the same time.

The instructor definitely knew what she was talking about and would assist members of the class if it was necessary to make sure they were comfortable and so they wouldn’t hurt themselves. I was very impressed that the studio was able to have a fun and friendly atmosphere, but have a serious and soothing class. I left feeling stretched and relaxed. I highly recommend Zona Yoga if you are thinking about trying yoga out or you would like a new place to try.

These days, yoga is becoming a more popular way for people to get a good workout and relax their mind. Below are reviews of three different yoga places for ideas on where to go.

Bikram Yoga Om Prana Yoga

At Bikram yoga, they do yoga in a different way than the other places do. They do normal yoga, but in a heated room. It is hot. I mean, over 100 degrees hot. That way, muscles warm up faster. The heat detoxifies the body while allowing deeper stretching and relieving stress. It is also harder to get injured in the hotter environment. My experience at Bikram was pretty good, I’d say. The people were very friendly and the instructor was supportive and encouraging, which is good for all levels of experience. There was no pressure, and it was a very quiet environment considering the studio was a conversation-free zone. It was relaxing and a good workout, even though the room smelled a lot like feet. However, in a room full of hot, sweaty people, that is to be expected.

The heat can be very overbearing, but if you get light headed at all, they let you sit down. If you are going to go to Bikram, be sure to drink lots of water beforehand and take plenty with you. The class is a little long--90 minutes. I think 60 would’ve been just as satisfying, but with the warm-up and cool down included, it went by fast. At the end, they give you a cold lavender scented towel and it honestly feels like heaven. I recommend Bikram, you won’t be disappointed. It’s kind of on the pricy side, a single class with a student discount is $18.50, but I think it’s worth it.

If you wanted to, they also offer monthly and annual memberships as well.

Om Prana Yoga & Consultants was a bit different than the others, because I really didn’t like it. First of all, reserving a class is a pain.

It’s online. Not only do you have to reserve a spot, you have to sign in and make a membership to even see the class schedule. Then, if you want to read a class description, you have to go back to their website and find it. Also, to reserve your spot, you have to pay online. It’s such a waste of time. The first red flag of Om Prama was when I had to call them because I couldn’t make the class that I had originally signed up for. The woman who answered the phone just answered in the snottiest tone and stated her name. Not a “hello” or “Om Prana Yoga and Consultants” like a lot of other places would answer. Then, when I explained that I had paid online and could no longer make the class, she said my name wasn’t even on the roster after going through all that trouble online. It was such a pain.

The class is okay, nothing special. It was way too easy, even for a beginner. Everyone in the class was way older than I was, and the content of the class reflected that.

I probably could’ve burned more calories sitting on my couch watching Netflix. Honestly, with all the trouble I experienced, it wasn’t worth the $13.00 to me. I felt anything but relaxed when I left, which defeats the purpose of yoga.

>>IT IS BELIEVED THAT WHEN THE RIGHT NOSTRIL IS MORE OPEN, WE ARE MORE FIRED UP, ACTIVE AND AROUSED. WHEN THE LEFT NOSTRIL IS DOMINANT, WE ARE RELAXED AND AT EASE.

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SPRING SPORTS

PREVIEW

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

18 PHSVIEW.COM

March 2 was when the season teed off, practice began and tryouts started. The seasons are rapidly changing and so is the South golf team.

“A few of the things we are going to do differently throughout the course of this season is identify areas of improvement and use the data we collect to track how they are playing,” said Tracy Mangels, Varsity golf coach. “Then we will have an idea on where they need to improve and eliminate that so we are peaking and playing our best golf postseason.”

The team is also planning a team trip to the Lake of the Ozarks during Spring break to bond and make lasting memories.

Brad Peck, social studies teacher and golf coach, made a lasting impression on girls’ golf this past season and has a plan to make another impression in his second season coaching boys’ golf.

“I’ll bring them candy to bribe them and win their affection,

along with sharing my passion for golf and my magnetic personality,” Peck said.

Many teams have talent, whether it is as a team or an individual, but effort and hard work is what sets teams in the right direction to success.

“The hard work indoors this off-season put in by our players will be what puts us ahead of all the other schools,” said Tanner Owen.

With driving ambition, this team hopes to be a hit this season.

by MORGAN GREER

BOYS

GOLF

>>LONGEST RECORED DRIVE IN GOLF WAS 515 YARDS ACCORDING TO JUNIOR PLAYERS GOLF ACADEMY

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT BOYS AND GIRLS

TRACK PHS Track is ready to run this city yet again…literally.

Both boys and girls track prepare for the 2015 spring season and expect big things from their teams.

Making sure to stay in shape, the track teams participated in preseason training to prepare for the season ahead.

“I know quite a few of our athletes have been participating in and loving Coach Cramer’s workouts,” said Sarah Russ, junior.

Along with workouts, Russ said the team also had conditioning every Tuesday

by NICK CLAASSEN and Thursday to work on cardio and sprints before season.

“We expect to do pretty good this year, and make it far on our way to CoMo,” said Derrick Cook, senior.

Cook said not only is he excited for competition against hard teams, but having fun running with his friends.

Both teams lost some key contributing seniors, but still expect to perform very well this year as they kick the track season into gear.

GIRL’S

SOCCER They spend hours running in the school, practicing drills and give everything they have. They pushed themselves harder than ever before.

This year South's Girls Soccer has increased their conditioning schedule to prepare for the season more than any other year.

"It was pretty hard, but it's just going to make us better," said Madi Sanders, junior.

Not only have the soccer girls been preparing for their season, but also preparing for their college careers. Seniors Carli Hanlon

by KYLE VANICE

and Anna Courtney both signed with KU to continue their soccer careers, along with Sanders who has committed to play at Florida Gulf Coast before the end of her junior year. Shay Jackson, senior, has also committed to play here.

"Conditioning was more difficult because they created the training schedule around the different schools people are going off to," said Flannery Koelliker, sophomore.

The girls are putting in their best effort forward to establish a successful soccer season.

>>FIRST HOME TRACK MEET IS MARCH 26TH

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19

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT BOYS

TENNIS

by JAKE SPRINGER

South’s boys tennis is ready to start their spring season. During tryouts the team has to move snow off of the courts before they can even begin preparing for the season.

After the snow is cleared, they start their workouts and conditioning. The workouts include a lot of running and skills training.

Once the team is up and going, they start playing matches to create a lineup for the season.

The challenge ladder is something

BASEBALL

ONE LAST HIT IN THEIR HOMETOWN

SIGNED SENIORS

With returning varsity players, new coaches and six college commits, South Baseball is ready for the 2015 season. Impressive is the word to describe the baseball program at South. The coaching staff consists of Russ McDaniels and Josh Walker (Varsity), Jon Sobbe (JV), and Trevor Allison (Freshman).

The baseball team is fortunate to have lots of returning varsity members, but even more fortunate to have not one, but six seniors that have committed to a college to further their baseball career. Easton Fortuna and Jake Purl have both signed letters of intent with Kansas City, Kansas Community College.

“It will be cool going to college with Jake. We’ve already been playing together for so long it will be nice getting to be on the team together,” said Fortuna.

Richard Fullerton will be attending Dodge City Community College in the fall.

“I picked Dodge over my two other offers because the coaches are great and our home field is very nice,” said Fullerton.

All of the boys and coaches have very high

20

that encourages competition on the team because players can challenge each other for their position.

“Coach Cunliff pushes us really hard and weeds out the kids who are there to mess around or not make best lineup as possible,” said Ty Crabtree, senior.

The team expects their singles and doubles teams to do very well and make a run at Districts. The team has seen the schedule and feels confident, though having to travel to play Rockbridge later in the season may be tough.

Senior Brian Day said, “We don’t have Rockhurst this year, but we still have a pretty tough schedule like last year. I think we will do great.”

The boys can’t wait to start their season and make a run at Districts and State.

expectations for the upcoming season.

Maple Woods commit Andrew Richards said, “I think we’ll be very successful this year especially after our previous season. We expect to win Districts.”

Varsity placed second in the District last year.

Catcher John Chacon has signed with Elsworth College, and like Richards, he believes that the team will go far this season, hopefully to the State Championship game.

Eli Patterson will be attending college in St. Charles, Mo., as he has signed to play for the University of Lindenwood.

“I’m very excited for upcoming season. We have a strong team with lots of returning seniors who have had plenty of experience on Varsity,” said Patterson.

The baseball program at South is definitely something to look forward to this coming Spring. With six college bound players, the team will not only be better athletically, but will also be able to leave South knowing they have a baseball career ahead of them.

by ALLIE HICKEY

ELI PATTERSON//LINDENWOOD EASTON FORTUNA// KCK ANDREW RIICHARDS//MAPLE WOODS JAKE PURL// KCK RICHARD FULLERTON//DODGE CITY JOHN CHACON//ELSWORTH

PHSVIEW.COM

>>ONLY 6.8% OF HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PLAYERS GO ON TO PLAY IN COLLEGE, ACCORDING TO THE NCAA

NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

MARCH m a d n e s s

by JAKE SPRINGER and DARIA GHASEMI

March Madness is the most antisipated and hectic event in sports. Below are some students’ predictions for this upcoming tournament.

James Byrd

Nylo Clarke

Final 4?

Kentucky Virginia Duke Kansas

Iowa State Kentucky Duke Syracuse

Winner?

Kentucky

Team to get Upset?

One of the #1 seeds

#1 Seeds?

Cinderella Team?

Noah Anderson Louisville Kentucky Memphis Kansas

Ja’Shar Turner Duke Kentucky Virginia North Carolina

Kentucky

Kentucky

Louisville

Kansas

Duke

Kentucky Virginia Duke Syracuse

Kentucky Virginia Miami Louisville

Kentucky Virginia Wisconsin Gonzaga

Kentucky Virginia Gonzaga Villanova

Oklahoma

Iowa State

Memphis

Duke

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North Carolina

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NEWS FEAT OPIN SPORT

THE fifth QUARTER

March brings the most exciting sports event back yet again to our nation, a time of fierce competition, difficult bracket making and, of course, college basketball

by NICK CLAASSEN

S

ixty-seven games, 68 teams, over 2,680 minutes of basketball, and 9.2 quintillion bracket outcomes. March is truly madness.

It’s that time of the year again, time for the best annual tournament in sports. NCAA March Madness.

College basketball is not the most popular sport in America by a longshot, but its postseason tournament is no doubt an American favorite. Why does everyone love March Madness so much?

It is right there in the name: sheer madness because of how unpredictable the tournament is results in something new every single year. The fact that it is so easy for the best teams in the nation to lose and a new powerhouse to emerge is what excites sports fans of all kinds.

Let’s not forget everyone's favorite team, the underdog. Even if your team is out of contention, you’re rooting against the team you hate, or you just love the little guy, there is a good chance you will be rooting for the underdog.

The underdog, the dark horse, the Cinderella team, the longshot-- whatever you want to call it, these sort of teams are called this for a reason. It is because they aren’t supposed to win, the stats just don’t match up. But that is the special thing about March Madness. It happens every single year and sometimes the underdog goes pretty far against the odds. These type of fairy tale runs are watched closely by America as fans jump on the bandwagon. It is possible for teams no one has ever heard of to beat the best team in the nation.

That is what makes the tournament special.

The easy part is cheering for the underdog, so what’s the hard part? Picking the underdog. To pick a underdog correctly is pretty hard. To pick every single game correctly, well, you could say it is like finding a needle in a haystack….as tall as the Empire State Building. Sometimes the art of filling out a bracket can be the most stressful part of a young basketball fan’s life.

March Madness bracket challenges have become one of the most popular betting events

in American sports. Avid college basketball fans, everyday sports fans, and even people who do not know what a free-throw is all get their pencils and checkbooks out ready to play.

A lot of work goes into picking a bracket, and watching March Madness basketball tends to take up a long time as well. With games almost every day for a good part of the month of March, there will always be a good game to watch. It is estimated that employers lose about $1.2 billion every hour of unproductive work during March Madness, and I am guessing there is a good amount of education lost as well.

It is all a part of the March Madness experience, though. If you have to secretly watch a game on your phone and pretend like you are sleeping, then that’s you have to do. With new apps letting you watch games live, keeping updated scores, and scoring your March Madness bracket, it is now easier than ever to keep up with the biggest tournament of the year.

This year in particular should be a very exciting one to watch because of weak predicted number one seeds, other than Kentucky. Kentucky looks like the only team that could for sure win the tournament, but someone could always give them a run for their money. The rest of the top seeds have had unstable seasons and all look like they could become possible victims of early exits by lower seeds.

Although it is hard to pick underdogs, possible sleeper teams for this tournament who could pull off big upsets or make Cinderella runs include: Temple, NC State and West Virginia. All three teams have had overlooked mediocre seasons, but have one or more quality wins against top teams.

Those kind of stats give them the best chance as a underdog team.

This March we may be in for a treat with plenty of buzzer beaters and upsets ahead of us.

Keep your fingers crossed and your brackets close as we embrace the best competition of the year and experience the intensity of the madness we call college basketball.

scan here to see HOW TO pick the perfect bracket>>

>>“I’M SO EXCITED TO WATCH THE JAYHAWKS KICK SOME BASKETBALL BUTT THIS SEASON,” SAID CARLI HANLON SENIOR.

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