Benson explained that his inspiration for Spirit Week came from a similar event held at his high school during lunch periods. Spirit Week pits the four classes against one another in inter-grade competition in events such as a belly-flop contest, raft race, slam dunk contest, three-point shooting competition, hot dog eating contest, tricycle race, tug-of-war and an obstacle course, among others.
Benson and Bookman envisioned Spirit Week as a way to bolster unity and interpersonal support. "I don't think students do a good enough job supporting each other and I thought this would be a good way to get it started," said Benson. Benson and Bookman believe Spirit Week is a way to foster more interaction among students of different grade levels, community within the different classes, a culture of working together and, most importantly, a way to relieve stress and have a ton of fun. "The most important thing is having fun," said Benson.
And, as Benson pointed out, "In terms of bang for buck, we're getting great returns on this thing." Participants have reported thoroughly enjoying themselves at last week's events, and anticipation is high for tonight's hot dog eating contest and tricycle race. Benson and Bookman cite solid attendance at last week's events.
The '09s took the raft race, followed by the '10s and the '08s. Piper Pettersen '07 splashed her way to first in the Belly Flop Contest, followed by Keith Erzinger '08 and Josiah "Captain Ahab" Bethards '09.
Bookman reported that a crew of basketball players threw down "some pretty sick dunks" at the Slam Dunk Contest, which included junior Brandon Jones's through the legs, off the glass, reverse jam that earned him first place. Steve Wheeler '10 took second and Adolphe Coulibaly '08 followed in third. It was a great night for Coulibaly, as he teamed up with Matt Goldsmith '08 for first in 2-ball and took first in the 3-point Competition. After a week of events, the '08s lead the school, followed by the '09s, who maintain a slim margin over the '10s and '07s in their tie for third.
Bethards said he enjoyed himself at Wednesday night's pool events, commenting that a sense of community was felt at the event. He was also satisfied with his performance. "I stroked it hard for first place and I got it," the enthusiastic participant said of the '09s victory in the competition.
Benson and Bookman hope this year's Spirit Week is just the beginning. The duo plans to organize a larger series of events for next fall to get the school year started off on the right foot. They hope their efforts will translate into larger student mobilization to support one another, whether that be in the arts or athletics.
"The plan is to get this going so in future years it'll be really big," said Bookman. Benson explained that Amherst students have so much talent that often goes unrecognized and that he hopes Spirit events can help students realize one another's many talents. More organization of "the 6th man" with the help of Lord Jeff Nation is also in the works for next year.
"I'm excited to show my support for what I believe is a great idea," said Kevin Puzzele '10, who expects to compete in the Hot Dog Eating Contest tonight. "Plus, I love hot dogs. I think the event will be a phenomenal way to relieve stress, build community and have a ton of fun."