![Colin McRaven ('24) prepares to pitch the ball to an Anclote batter during the Varsity pre-season game."I like striking people out, since it's fun. The game against Anclote was pretty easy because they were less talented than our team and [I think] we were better than them in every aspect," Colin McRaven ('24) said.](https://jwmhshoofbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1538-1200x928.jpg)
On Wednesday, Aug. 9th, the new senior class celebrated moving up a grade by attending Senior Sunrise. Here, the class of 2024 woke up bright and early to watch the sun come up over the ocean at Fred Howard Park Beach to symbolize the beginning of a new school year. Swarms of senior students filled the beach to sit down and take pictures as the sun shimmered and gleamed over the waves early that morning.
Hanna Carberry-Simmering (’24) recalls fond memories of the day despite the early wake-up call. While the sun was set to rise at 7 am, this was the same time the park opened.
“My favorite part about Senior Sunrise was getting here really early, driving with friends, and getting to see the colors of it, since we kind of missed the actual sunrise,” Carberry-Simmering said. “Hanging out with friends was just really fun as well as seeing everyone from school before we went back.”
Vania Salcedo (’24), a friend of Carberry-Simmering’s, shared similar thoughts about the event. Although, while others were watching the sky, she was among the first to jump into the warm ocean waters.
“We went in the water a couple of times, we read, we took some pictures, and we had fun. I’m glad that we do it. I think that it’s different and a good way to start the year,” Salcedo said. “The tradition should go on.”
Even after the sun came up, students still stuck around the beach with friends to fully enjoy their last day of summer. Among these students was Alexandra Pippio (’24) whose friends stayed hours past when others left.
“We played a lot of spike ball, volleyball, and football. I think the best part was having one last chance to connect with everyone before school started; it was a great way to end summer,” Pippio said.
Emery Julian (’24) took the time to show his muscles and reconnect with others.
“My favorite part about Senior Sunrise was probably getting tanned. I got tanner than I was, but I’m still pale,” Julian said. “Fantastic beach day.”
All in all, the day was a major success, and was able to create lasting memories for all who attended. Seniors officially returned to school on Aug. 10th but still had sunkissed skin to remember the day.
