Senior traditions are a defining feature of classes all over the country, but there are a few notable traditions that stand out at Bellarmine. Whether it’s the beautifully decorated jumpsuits, funny backpacks, dramatic Nerf wars, or the memorable senior sunrise and sunset, there is always something the seniors are getting ready for that is a must for incoming students to know.

Senior jumpsuits are a long-standing tradition at Bellarmine and are a defining trait of the football games. Senior girls decorate Navy coveralls with symbols, colors, and Bellarmine catch phrases to cheer on the football team. Originally, only the guys decorated coveralls, but it has flipped over the past decade. Don’t forget to stock up on paint, tinsel, and tape when preparing a jumpsuit!

Ever seen the colorful backpacks around campus? Seniors trade out their old backpacks for new ones with Barbie, Marvel, Cars, and other childhood favorites. It’s not only for fun, but it is a tradition that symbolizes the journey from childhood to adulthood as they move on to life after high school.

Next up is the infamous Bellarmine Nerf wars. This unaffiliated event is a mandatory part of being a Bellarmine senior where students compete in teams and are put head-to-head against each other. Their task is to eliminate the other team before they can do the same to them with the winner at the end receiving a generous prize.

Lastly is senior sunrise and sunset. Students meet on the first official day of school, bright and early in the morning before the sun rises, and sit out on the field where they bundle up in blankets and share stories of the summer. They meet once again on the field for sunset on the last day to take photos and say a final goodbye to everyone they’ve gone on this journey with. This long-standing tradition is where seniors celebrate the first and last day of their final year together as a class.

Senior traditions strengthen the community and give students the opportunity for reflection and celebration as they live out their final high school year. At Bellarmine, these traditions aren’t just events, they are memories that stay with students long after graduation.