The Headmasters’ Societies Games started at Blair back in the winter of 2004. The brainchild of former Dean of Students David Vachris, the games were intended to create a week of physical and mental competitions that allow students, faculty and staff to go head-to-head to see which team would emerge victorious. Each team or “house” is named after legendary former Heads of School Dr. Charles Breed, Reverend Jim Kelley, Dr. Jim Howard and Dr. John Sharpe. Events vary quite a bit, ranging from dodgeball and volleyball to Oreo stacking and rock/paper/scissors; they culminate in the massive tug o’ war at the end of the week and the ever popular Talent Show that has, in the past, decided the overall winner.

The week is a highlight for many faculty as it offers a great chance to do something completely different from their normal Blair life. Kate Sykes, chair of the fine arts department, has been the faculty leader for Team Sharpe for several years and routinely dresses in her finest purple and gold garb that week (her team colors), while Latta Browse, math department chair, is so connected to his team that he went so far as to legally change his car’s license plate to “Breed.” 

Former students tune in all week, following the daily points and cheering on their team, indeed proving these games exist at the core of many Blair alumni. Team Breed currently has the lead overall with six wins, but Team Sharpe is at their heels with five and Teams Howard and Kelley with four each. Will this be a year for the underdogs? Tune in and see!

Follow along on Blair's Instagram all this week for a Senior Class Council takeover to catch the live action from an insider perspective!