Pickleball

I’m sure I sound like a broken record. However, last year, with the grant money I earned, I was able to expand our pickleball unit with more balls to replace the ones that were older and cracked. I was able to add a full set of starter pickleball paddles that are a lighter plastic, instead of the heavier solid wood ones I currently use. These lighter-weight paddles are great for my younger students as they work up to the heavier paddles.

We kicked off the week by reviewing the basics, serving, volleys, and paddle control, using our favorite pancake drill. Students also practiced on the wall before moving to volleys over a net. From there, they put their skills to work in a modified version of pickleball. With four courts set up in the gym, everyone had a chance to play, while students who wanted extra practice could continue working with a partner or on the wall.

Nitro Ball!

This week, my middle school classes had the chance to play Pickleball and Nitro Ball!

Nitro Ball is a fast-paced, modified version of volleyball that keeps everyone moving. Using pickleball nets and a volleyball, students served underhand, and each team had to let the ball bounce once before returning it (except on the serve). Teams could use up to three hits per side, but no blocking, keeping the game fair and exciting!

Points were scored when the ball went out of bounds, if a team used more than three hits, if the ball bounced twice on one side, or if it didn’t make it over the net. After each point, teams rotated clockwise and earned the next serve. The first team to 21 points took the win!

It’s always fun introducing games like these that build teamwork, strategy, and quick reflexes, all while keeping things competitive and upbeat

Yesterday’s assembly was wonderful! It was packed with TONS of AR buttons, birthday celebrations, and of course, some well-deserved recognition from our Athletic Department!

Kicking things off, our 7th Grade Volleyball Team once again defended their region as the top regular-season team, clinching 1st place in their league for the third year in a row!👏

Not only did the team earn a new banner (which will be officially presented at our next assembly), but each player also received their 1st place medals🥇. Congratulations on another incredible season!

In their first season, our 4th-grade team took 3rd place🥉 in a very competitive league and also received a medal! They earned home-court advantage during pool play and made a good run in the tournament! I am really excited about how our volleyball program has evolved, and can’t wait to watch all these young ladies continue to grow and excel in the classroom and on the court!

Traveling P.E.🏆 Winner is…

A tradition that started way back during the COVID era has carried on strong! KND wins the trophy in October! Mrs. Parkhurst keeps the fun going by filling it with Halloween candy, and of course, our 8th graders always seem to claim it in November! This has become one of my favorite long-standing traditions, and I hope it continues for many years to come! 🎃🍬

Share Your Child’s Athletic Achievements!

Does your child participate in sports outside of SJN? I’d love to hear about it! You can reply to this email and share their accomplishments with me. I’d be happy to feature them in upcoming editions of the newsletter.

As we gear up for the time of year I like to refer to as Eating Season, when the treats, comforts, and family feasts pile up, let’s keep one simple goal: enjoy the season without letting it hijack our health habits.

3 Smart Moves for Eating Season

Pick your favorites, purposefully. Instead of sampling everything on the table, choose two or three foods you really love and skip the rest. Research suggests being selective helps you savour your treats and avoid overeating.

Start with nutrient-rich foods. Fill half your plate (or more) with vegetables, lean proteins, or fruits first, then add in a smaller portion of comfort foods. This approach means you get nourishment and fullness before indulgence.

Mindful eating & movement matter. Eat slowly and stop when you’re satisfied, not stuffed. After a rich meal, take a short walk; it helps digestion, mental reset & keeps things balanced.

Until next week, Mr. Hackett