The Winter Olympics, a series of games where countries compete against each other to show who’s best, an 100-year-old tradition. Some watch to show pride in their country, and others because their friends and family all join together to spectate. Over the course of these 17 days of intense competition, the Games leave a unique impact on viewers everywhere. 

Every year, the Winter Olympics start the same, with the traditional opening ceremony. The host country always makes it unique to the location, and countries from around the world are showcased. While some viewers skip past the ceremony, others see it as one of the most meaningful moments of the Games. Sophomore Jean-Luc Khayat always makes sure to tune in because of a special family connection. “The opening ceremonies have always been special to me, especially because my dad has been a torchbearer a few times,” he said. 

Speaking of family, the Olympics have the ability to bring people together, whether it is through shared national pride or viewing parties at a friend’s house. When the Olympics come around, suddenly everyone from around the world is connected through one major sporting event. Its impact can also be small but just as important. “Every time the Olympics come back, all of our family friends get together and watch the games,” said junior Samantha Zawacki.

For many viewers, the Olympics stand apart from other sporting events because of their high stakes and intense competition. Countries select their top athletes to go compete for all of the glory. Because this event is so publicized and global, it is set apart from other sporting events that are much smaller. Freshman Robbie Louge describes the Olympics as bigger than the rest. “The Olympics is more of a worldwide event that brings many different countries together and is more exciting because it has higher stakes,” he said. 

Even though the Olympics have been around for many years, people keep coming back. The Olympics are a special event that only comes every four years, making it more exciting due to the anticipation building up. Sophomore Caroline Saxon explains how the fact that you can’t watch the Olympics on a regular day and have to wait makes its arrival even better. “It’s something that happens every few years, and it’s like a gem because it’s not an everyday thing and it’s super rare,” she said. 

Whether it’s watching the opening ceremony, cheering with family, or admiring the dedication of elite athletes, the Winter Olympics continue to hold meaning for students at NAHS. Every four years, the Games remind viewers that sports can be more than competition; they can be a shared experience that connects people across cultures, countries, and generations.