At the Palo Alto (Paly) – Gunn basketball game on January 26 the Gunn Sixth Man Club displayed a sign arguing that Gunn was greater than Paly according to a US News’ academic poll. This sign was one example that contributed to the common myth that Gunn has poor sports teams. As an athlete and a devoted Titan fan, I am sick of hearing “how bad our sports are,” and especially that they are worse than Paly’s. In reality, Gunn has an outstanding sports program and it is time to put those negative rumors to rest once and for all.

First, I’ll name the concrete facts that prove how strong our sports really are. According to Athletic Director Christopher Horpel, we rank fifth overall in the Central Coast Section (CCS) out of 140 schools. This ranking is incredibly high, considering the 135 schools below us include private schools that have “recruiting privileges” and yes, Paly.

We have had many successful teams this year. Eleven of our varsity teams finished in the top 20 in the Central Coast Section and three finished in the top three. “In addition, we are in the middle of a massive facility upgrade, so things look bright for the future,” Horpel said. Just a few of our strong programs this year included volleyball (starting out at an impressive 14-0), both boys’ and girls’ basketball (finishing second in the competitive De Anza division), wrestling (finishing 16th in CCS), boys’ tennis (finishing 7th in CCS) and badminton (first in the De Anza and CCS Champions).

After processing all these numbers, one is forced to wonder why everyone thinks we have no quality sports. Every team at Gunn is in the De Anza division, except for football. Football games draw the largest crowds and most attention. Sadly, most fans who attend Gunn football games don’t see the Titans come out triumphant, and that is the root of the myth.

On the other side of town, Paly has one of the best football programs in the state, and crushed the Titans 49-0 this season. Because of this, many people assume that all Paly sports are superior. However, in reality we rank higher than them overall. Our football team does their best each season, but it’s very difficult to win because of their small roster. According to Horpel, the Titans’ football staff is already making changes to ensure a more successful future.

At Gunn, it seems as if school spirit is often put on the back-burner for schoolwork and other commitments. Many great athletes choose not to play for Gunn athletics, but if more people participated, our success will skyrocket.

Every October during Homecoming Week, the constant stressed-out atmosphere at Gunn transforms into one of a school practically overflowing with pride. This is what we need all year long. We need fans to show up to school on game days talking about the evening’s upcoming game. We need constant tailgates and screaming fans for all sports—not just football and boys’ basketball.

According to a poll released by Newsweek on May 19, 2008, Gunn ranks 81st in the country academically. However, this is not the only number to celebrate. We should be proud to be Titans, proud to rank in the top five of the large and extremely competitive CCS. We need to start showing this pride. Whether it’s painting our faces red for games or being an athlete, Gunn athletics are something to celebrate.