You learn something new every day.  For me, I discovered a high school  game that’s apparently been around since the 80s, but somehow slipped past my radar until now.  I discovered it when I overheard student taking about today because they are preparing for the big kickoff next week.

Senior Assassin is a cross between ultimate tag and skirmish using mainly water guns.  Ever player gets some other play they must “kill.”  If I get killed, I’m out.  But if I kill my target, I must then take on their target.  Players keep getting eliminated until the surviving player is dubbed the winner.  Many times, participants must pay to enter the game and the winner gets the pot.

Sometimes, other rules are added, such as you are immune if you are wearing underwear, or with a freshman.

It’s especially popular as a final-year tradition to keep Senioritis at bay, come March-June.

I asked the students if it’s really wise to keep up with this game, given what happened earlier this month in Parkland, Florida.  I could see them struggle to connect the dots between this recent tragedy and this long-standing tradition.  But to me, it was very clear.

While I understand the game’s appeal, I think it would be in very bad taste to continue a prolonged violent-themed role-playing game.

While I’m not out to steal anybody’s joy, (the seniors have been waiting for over three years since they were incoming freshman), I think they should at least change the name, eliminating all reference to shooting and guns.  It’s insensitive and disrespectful to the victims and their families.

What do you think?  Am I being to sensitive?

Please comment below.

#153Promise