Brook Olympics bring school spirit and more to Willowbrook

Willowbrook’s Brook Olympics isn’t just a normal spirit week.

It is an opportunity for students and staff to engage in friendly competition for a good cause, as 100 percent of the proceeds from the week’s activities benefit local charitable organizations.

This year’s Brook Olympics took place from May 19 to 23. During the week, students and staff participated in various activities and events to show their school spirit and, more importantly, their commitment to one another and what it means to be a Willowbrook Warrior.

During the Brook Olympics, classes go head to head in a weeklong series of events and challenges, with the hope of their class being named the champion. For every event that takes place, a gold medal earns three points, a silver medal earns two points and a bronze medal earns one point.

On May 23, students and staff gathered for the annual Brook Olympics Assembly. During the assembly, various student groups performed, staff members went head to head in a staff version of the TV show “Survivor” and students battled in a tug-of war competition. The assembly raised about $380 in just five minutes by sending buckets around to students in the bleachers.

Seniors took home first place, and for the first time in Brook Olympics history, juniors came in second. Freshmen and sophomores tied for third place – another Brook Olympics first! Freshmen also made history by winning the tug-of-war competition.

The assembly also recognized the 27 male faculty members who participated in Facial Hair February earlier this year, which raised more than $4,000 for the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life of District 88 All Youth. The Facial Hair February winner was chosen by students through donations, and the staff member with the most money raised was Neil Wahlgren. Second place was awarded to Brett Maguire, and third place went to Matt Scott.

"Even though Brook Olympics was a little later this year, the students still participated a lot and had tons of fun,” said Cristy Hebreard, Willowbrook teacher and Blue Crew Advisor. “This is the best week of the year, and it really brings our school together – even though they are competing against each other. The spirit, the enthusiasm and the behavior of the students this year was awesome, and I look forward to many more Brook Olympics!”