On Saturday, September 29, 2026, students from the Class of 2030 attended the Freshman Mixer. This event, hosted by Jesuit Student Council, helped build unity, fostered new connections and allowed students to relax and enjoy themselves while also mixing with fellow Ursuline peers.
Card Games
At 7:00 p.m., hundreds of freshmen from both Jesuit and Ursuline arrived at the front gates of the football stadium. After being checked in, they found themselves in an area surrounded by many blackjack and poker tables just waiting to be used.
“[My favorite thing was] the poker tables, because I really enjoy poker and sometimes play with my friends.”
– Ryker Heldt ’30
Many students really enjoyed playing blackjack and poker. Some students were learning how to play the classic games for the first time, while others were coming from more experience. Regardless of prior experience, everyone enjoyed playing while spending the night with their classmates and friends.



Activities
As the sun set, the sky turned to colors of red and orange before fading into a dark black. The lights turned on and illuminated the field below.
Out on the field, many students gathered to relax and socialize. Some students found a date for homecoming; this was especially important for some at the event, because it was one of the last chances students had to find one before the dance on September 26. During the mixer, students also met new friends and talked to old ones.
Also on the field were many yard games, including: spikeball, cornhole, Connect Four basketball and volleyball. Many students enjoyed playing these games with friends, classmates, and their newly-found homecoming dates.
“I showed up with friends and enjoyed playing Connect Four, basketball, and cornhole.”
– Matt Waldie ’30
Up on the pavilions, there were also several snacks and refreshments for students to enjoy. These items allowed students to remained hydrated and energized while embracing the mixer with their friends.



Final Thoughts
Before long, the clock struck 9:00 p.m. and it was time to go home. Students went home reflecting on the great time they had, while also feeling excited about the new connections they had formed, which are bound to last through their time at Jesuit. Overall, this event helped bring together the true spirit of community and brotherhood, while fostering connections beyond just Jesuit.
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Featured Image Credit: @jesuitfreshmen on Instagram

