Real Stories

If You're Not First, You're Last

STUDENT:
Blake Luitwieler (Class of 2008)
HOMETOWN::
La Habra Heights, California
INVOLVEMENT AT WHITTIER :
Pitcher for the Poet baseball team

Whittier College adheres to tradition - and Spring Sing, Helping Hands Day, the Madrigal Feaste, the Homecoming Bonfire, and Sportsfest are only a few of the popular, annual campus events that over the years have become Whittier tradition. Featuring rock bands and skits, jesters and wassail, community service and rock climbing - and one time, a full Quidditch match on the Upper Quad - these events spark participation from just about everyone on campus.

"My favorite event of the year has to be, without a doubt, Sportsfest," says Blake Luitwieler, who has competed on a Sportsfest team every year since he began at Whittier. "Think of any sport possible, and this event brings it together in a weekend that is not only fun, but really competitive.

"Most everybody shows up for Sportsfest, either representing their team or supporting their friends. We end up with a school-wide party of sorts, and everyone gets to know everyone.

"One of the best times I had during Sportsfest was this one year, when there was a tug-of-war match scheduled. It was pouring rain, but everyone wanted to go ahead and hold the match anyway. Luckily, my team clinched the first place title - we totally destroyed our competition. Second place prize? A mouthful of mud."