Annual Staff vs. Student Game — Fun for the Schoolwide Community

By Grier Herring, Shield Editor 

The gym was packed with an energetic crowd and loud cheers as a team of North Raleigh Christian Academy seniors took on the staff team in a basketball game before Thanksgiving break. Through a close game and a senior win, it was easy to see how united the school community is in every situation from cheering to coaching. On the evening of Nov. 20, parents, families, and other students came to watch their peers and teachers, while reaching the goal of growing as a Christlike body and raising money for the school's general missions fund. 

In the annual staff vs. student game, NRCA staff and seniors who opted to play got to go head-to-head in a fun competition, coached by senior basketball players and staff coaches. In this playful event, game rules were not harsh, and every player had the opportunity to contribute to the game.  

On the sidelines, the NRCA cheerleaders had the opportunity to showcase what they taught the students who participated in the Elementary Winter Cheer Clinic. The elementary cheerleaders performed a halftime routine.  

The energetic cheers and support showcased the relationships between the players and coaches. Senior Nick Sary said, “The energy was awesome… pretty electric.” What stood out most was how the game reflected the relationships that form the NRCA community. Even in the intensity of a close score, everyone in the gym could see the love and unity shared between all players as students and staff indulged in banter and joking around during the game, showing they truly cared for each other. 

Khloe Moye, one of the senior coaches, said, “Seeing the way the coaches and players interacted during the staff vs. student game really stood out during the game. Despite the game’s intense level of competitive spirit, they helped each other up and were encouraging one another, keeping the atmosphere positive.” Moments like these, with teachers smiling through friendly competition and students cheering even when they weren’t on the court, revealed how much NRCA values encouragement and togetherness. 

The game also highlighted the importance of uniting toward a central purpose. Sary said, “It reminded me that as a whole class we need to be able to work together these last few months in school and follow good Christian values so that we can have a great school year.” 

In the end, the final score mattered far less than the message the game delivered. It was a reminder that at NRCA spiritual unity is more important than anything happening on the scoreboard.  

Teacher Paula Adams, who has participated in this event for many years, said, “I love how this event brings our NRCA family together for fun, laughter, healthy competition, and most importantly, supporting a mission trip to share the gospel.” This year’s NRCA staff vs. student basketball game strengthened the bonds of a community committed to supporting one another, serving together, and growing in Christ.