Softball: Flapjack Fundraiser 2016-2017

March 4, 2017

This is my third year working at the Flapjack Fundraiser for the Girls Varsity Softball team. During my first year, I worked as a greeter, which is known to be the job that rookies traditionally had. I stood at the front of Applebee’s and greeted people as they came in, collecting their tickets and guiding them to the table they would be seated in. At first, it was intimidating to be doing something that felt real, as if I was actually working at Applebee’s. However, as more and more guests came in, where I responded with smiles and “good morning’s,” the tension that was once growing inside of me diminished.

Now as a junior, also my third year on the softball team, I am a lot more comfortable working with the team and others. It was my first time being a server. While I felt excited because the older players like Rakia and Claire told us, “it’s the most fun job ever!” at the same time I knew that being a waiter meant taking orders and follow everything correctly. Would I get something wrong? Would I write everything that people wanted on time? I thought to myself. However, when the first few guests came to my area, I approached them with confidence and a smile. “Good morning! What would you like? We have pancakes, sausages, and bacon.” To my surprise, the family simply stated, “Yes, we’ll take all of those.” I nodded and headed to the kitchen, waiting for the cooks hired by Applebee’s to place plates of warm breakfast.

This has become a tradition for the softball team. When February rolls around, we know it is that time of the year. All of us receive ten tickets that we are required to sell. It is my goal to sell all of them to maximize helping our team make as much money as possible. Walking around the school constantly bothering every face at lunch, “Hey! What’re you doing Saturday morning?” without a doubt, I became the most annoying person, especially when the time was coming closer to the day of the breakfast. The most common excuse that came up was – “Saturday is way too early. 8AM? I could be sleeping.” I didn’t disagree, but I knew I would be up at 7AM that morning, preparing to help our team and build spirit. Nonetheless, a promise that they’d receive extra bacon did the trick. Eventually, I sold all ten tickets, and sometimes even more if I was able to drag people from outside BSGE.

Beyond the logistics in selling tickets and assigning roles, it was one of the most fun mornings I have every year. Whether it is seeing Virge’s kids running around, trying to sell raffle tickets for a wonderful coffee maker, or seeing eating breakfast with my friends during my break, we make memories that are unforgettable. It was also enjoyable to help direct other players who were new to this job. I explained to them what options were available, what jobs needed to be filled in, and where to go throughout the restaurant.

Through this community service, I learned about my values in teamwork, spirit, and interacting with others. Acting as a waitress allowed me to meet many people in the BSGE community that I only knew of. In speaking to them, I felt a greater sense of belonging beyond the girls softball team. The room was filled with laughter, music, and smiles. Alumni, family, and teachers that came out made me realize how important it is to make connections with those around you – they care.