January 12, 2023, was expected to be any other ordinary, chilly Thursday for the students and staff of Novi High school, but little did they know that the starting of the new semester was about to be full of surprises.  

“Coming soon…RIVALS WEEK Northville vs. Novi” the Instagram post read.  The post itself gave no clues, nothing but eerie smoke with a black backdrop. Suspense, excitement, and deep curiosity filled the hallways and classrooms of Wildcat nation.

Friday, January 20, 2023, was the next update on the event, satisfying all of those questioning what the purpose of the week was.  The post gave clear explanation and instruction, stating that the concept originated from both Novi and Northville student congresses and that the fun, nearing days were to involve lunchroom games, designated dress-up days, donations, and more to earn points and crown a winning school (essentially bragging-rights and a trophy as a keepsake.)  All of this led up to the main attraction on the evening of February 3rd: the boys, unified, and girls basketball games against Northville.

It’s important to note that the week wasn’t just for the sole purpose of the rivalry though, and involved a more significant meaning through a creative blanket-making activity, supporting a specific, relevant cause.  During Monday advisories, groups had the opportunity to make a tie-blanket and were encouraged to donate blankets too.

“After a lot of discussion between Novi student council and Northville student congress we decided to support CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). CASA ensures that every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and the opportunity to thrive” Rachel Schypinski, student council advisor, said.  According to Schypinski, 105 blankets were donated. 

Throughout the week there were varying emotions rising to the surface amongst the staff and student body towards the concept of a “rivals week.” 

English teacher Laurel Begick said “It felt like a nicely timed spirit week but I’m sort of indifferent…I like the actual cause we’re supporting, but not the whole idea of a rivalry.”  

Soon, the four long days of silly outfits and amusement came to an end, and finally, the big day rolled around. Ending the school day with a joyous clap-out for the unified team, the energy accumulated into the night as there was a predictably large turnout for the evening games. Booming chants were exchanged back and forth between the “catpack” (Novi’s student section) and the “stable” (Northville’s student section) starting at 5:30 p.m. for the boys, all the way into the unified game at 7 p.m. (where the official “Rivals Week” victor was to be announced,) through to 8 p.m. for the girls. 

Unfortunately for the Wildcats, the Northville Mustangs ended Rivals Week with a program sweep, winning all three games and the title of Rivals Week champions. 

The boys took a well-fought loss 69-59 in the first game, with the unified team following a second loss, and the girls closing the night with an excruciatingly close one-point difference of 41-40.  

“The outcome of the game was obviously not what we wanted, especially losing by 1.  I think we were totally capable of beating them this time but some things got away from us,” Girls varsity captain Jordan Popyk said.  “Offensively and defensively we were not disciplined.  We hit some needed shots in high-pressure moments which helped keep us in the game but there were other times when our offense was not productive and Northville capitalized on that.”  

To close the week, Schypinski said that roughly $500 was raised, and the participation score between the schools ended with Novi accumulating 1546 and Northville 1886.  

“It was great to have the whole school come together and support our unified team,” Schypinski said. “However, to plan it differently, we feel like we need to promote more within our school and take more time to plan it because it felt like we were rushing to get everything organized.”