St. Andrew’s hosts 41st annual Scottish Games

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Bagpipes and quilts filled the campus at St. Andrew’s School this morning as it hosted its 41st Scottish Games.

In a nod to the school’s Scottish heritage, the tradition began with a parade of six separate clans. Every student, from preschool through eighth grade, belongs to one of the clans. Then, they compete in a mix of athletic challenges throughout the day.

Students and faculty participated in traditional events like the sheaf toss, an event in which a rake is used to hurl up a burlap bag stuffed over a horizontal bar above the competitor’s head. The sheaf toss was followed by caber toss, tug-of-war and other relay challenges.

In addition to earning points on the field, students also raised funds and brought in canned food for local food banks.

“It helps the community at large,” said Stacey Young, an English teacher at the school. “It helps our students understand our commitment to community service and to helping others.”

St. Andrew’s School is an independent college preparatory institution that accepts students from all backgrounds. Students become part of a clan upon arrival.

According to the school faculty, the clans embedded in the school’s history provide a sense of belonging for both students and alumni. One of the most important aspects of being in a clan is competing in the Scottish Games every year.