Community Celebrates Blue/White Night

Blue-White Night is an annual tradition that brings the community together for an evening of food, fun and spirited athletic competition. Families gather on campus to enjoy a barbecue, music and games while students take the field and courts. This year on October 9, home games included varsity volleyball, jv volleyball, jv tennis, varsity soccer, jv soccer and varsity field hockey.

Blue-White Night represents a moment where students across divisions gather to support their classmates and display their panther pride.

Katherine Snider ’27 stated, “Every year I look forward to strengthening Holton’s long-lasting tradition and celebrating it with new people.” Daphne Dunlap '27 also expressed that she felt “so excited to watch all the different sports teams competing” this year.

Students are strongly encouraged to show their support at all of the games, especially for teams that typically have fewer fans in attendance. Varsity tennis captain Ellee Gillespie ’26 said, “I know it can be hard to cheer for tennis since spectators have to be a little quieter, but when we do have supporters, it really encourages the team.”

Gillespie also highlighted one of her favorite team traditions: the field hockey team’s pre-game chants. Before starting, the field hockey players throw their sticks in a pile and gather around them in a circle. Then, each player yells a word for the team to embody during the game.

In advance of the evening, Athletic Director Graham Westerberg shared his anticipation. He said, “I’m excited to watch the community come together and to watch you all shine in your moments.” With Blue-White Night designated as a no-homework evening, students can set aside academic pressures and instead support their peers as they "shine" in the spotlight.

Another beloved athletic tradition is Senior Night, which honors seniors who have contributed years of dedication and leadership to their teams. Juniors typically plan these ceremonies for after games; and underclassmen have a chance to display their appreciation for the seniors on the team.

Together, Blue-White Night and Senior Night showcase the heart of Holton athletics. These traditions celebrate the spirit of competition and the strength of community to remind everyone what it means to be a panther.