This past Wednesday, November 14th, marked the second event of the Whitney Young “Division Wars”, a program that was just introduced to Whitney Young this year. Every month, the Sophomore class gathers during long division to compete in challenges highlighting technical ability, creativity, and teamwork.

The first event in October consisted of a basketball free throw contest, in which division representatives squared off one on one, taking five shots each in an  attempt to best their competitors in basketball finesse. Division 122 was victorious with the most free throws scored.

The second event on November 14 was a lip sync battle with guest judges English Teacher Mrs. Leki-Albano and former Assistant Principal Mrs. Lynn Zalon. The contest featured a mix of solo and group acts from 10 divisions with numbers such as a ballet fusion rendition of “Jingle Bell Rock” and a trio performance of Kesha’s “TiK ToK.” The judges were tough, and even the most popular groups didn’t all receive nines and tens. “Justice for Declan!” says Mary Simonson ’21, in response to a solo act that went underappreciated by the judges. The winner was Division 141, represented by Jordan Quinones ‘21 (pictured above), with scores of nine and ten: the only ten of the day. For Sarah Craft ‘21, the event was a great opportunity to “[work] with [her] Frackie friends and [to talk] to people that she hadn’t talked to as much recently” during their rehearsals in division.

Throughout this school year, Division Wars hopes to strengthen bonds between students and inspire a sense of community among the Sophomore class. Division Wars Organizer Mr. Locks believes this is a great opportunity for “[the Sophomores] to stand up in front of their peers” and is proud of them for doing so. The next contest will likely be a carnival-style relay competition with potato sacks and more, but details will be announced to the Sophomores December 5th  during long division in the theater.