Kayla Rrapi
J.W. Mitchell High yearbook staff huddle around each other and wave the spirit flag to celebrate being the first to win it at Camp Orlando this year.
“A top team is somebody who is friendly and is working hard and being kind to others and going out of their way to do work harder,” Brylynne Myatt, a black shirt (volunteer) at Camp Orlando, said.
Camp Orlando is a state-wide convention for high schoolers and middle schoolers who are looking to improve their yearbook and journalism skills. J.W Mitchell, the team that has won the spirit flag on day one, has been known for having a lot of spirit.
In Camp Orlando, a notable and memorable tradition of theirs is the passing of the spirit flag. This tradition has been going on for over 20 years, and is where the team who shows the most spirit is given the flag for the day, and eventually a school is awarded the flag to keep.
In order to get the spirit flag, a certain school must show the most overall enthusiasm, and must stand out from all the others. Not only must they appear exhilarated, but they must also show kindness and support to the other schools, even if they are competing against them.
After a long first day, the flag was eventually won by J.W Mitchell, a school that was said to show spirit above all others. They showed their dedication when working on the t-shirt competition and when walking the runway.
“I’m really excited, because it’s my first year. It’s a whole new opportunity for me,” said J.W. Mitchell freshman Taylor David, the model for the t-shirt competition.
The first spirit flag of Camp Orlando has now been won, and other teams are eagerly competing for the chance to be the next. Whether it’s cheering during events or paying attention in their classes, everyone is ready and optimistic for the next day, when the next winner will be named.