Within the timeline of Kent School’s history, a spirited tradition has remained steadfast for over a century—Loomis Day. Since its inception in 1921, the perennial event, characterized by its dynamic competition with teams from Loomis Chaffee School, bears the weight of a distinctive and storied rivalry. As the fall calendar nears Loomis Day, anticipation culminates in the week-long festivity of Spirit Week. Introducing daily themes throughout campus in the lead-up to Loomis Day, Spirit Week offers students the chance both for individual expression and community spirit. This year witnessed the introduction of “Rep Your Country Day,” during which both international and non-international students represented their respective nations and culture within a day dedicated to the celebration of global identities, along with an ‘80s day, Country vs. Country Club, and Twin Day.
Mr. Barrett, Kent’s Director of Athletics, reflects on the amusing tale involving the curious disappearance of spoons, kindling a 102 year saga of Kent-Loomis rivalry. “The post-game tea with Loomis’ headmaster and his family that have become synonymous with Loomis Day started in 1921,” says Mr. Barrett. “Evidently, four silver spoons went missing, and the headmaster’s wife approached some of our kids regarding the stolen spoons.” As three out of the four spoons made their return to Loomis following the aftermath, the final spoon found its way into the hands of the headmaster on graduation day. A ceremonial spoon is now passed back and forth to the winning football team after each game. “Since then, 102 years of Loomis-Kent history has endured.”
The longstanding athletic competition and spirited matchups of Loomis Day, according to Mr. Barrett, is a convergence of two institutions with a parallel commitment to student development and shared principles contributing to the competition between Kent and Loomis. “From a competitive standpoint,” observes Mr. Barrett, “part of the rivalry and appreciation is two like-minded schools, two very good academic schools valuing the total experience and development of our students.” With high-character student-athletes located at each school, Kent and Loomis “were a natural fit,” with Loomis bringing “a high level of competitive spirit.” According to Mr. Barrett, Loomis Day provides a platform for a natural athletic rivalry spanning a century.
Alternating between Kent and Loomis each year, Loomis Day also requires extensive planning by the School’s athletic department. “It is a lot of detail,” states Mr. Barrett, “and a lot of preparation. The scheduling for Loomis Day takes place a year in advance, with all sports competing at the same time requiring lots of logistical details.” This conscientious planning preceding the event extends beyond the various athletic pitches to include spirited events such as the lively pep rally taking place annually on the eve of Loomis Day. “We always look forward to it and get excited each year,” Mr. Barrett expresses. “The pep rally, for example, connects our campus community through all the great energy and spirit our kids bring with them.”
Traditionally, the football games stands as a “pillar” of Loomis Day according to Mr. Barrett, with its historical significance dating back to the infamous missing spoons in 1921. However, beyond the flagship event, the broader spectrum of matches reflecting the Kent-Loomis rivalry holds its own significance: “All games are incredible,” asserts Mr. Barrett. “Varsity, sub-varsity games, thirds, there is always a lot of energy, spirit, and competition.”
Irrespective of the season’s victories or losses, Spirit Week and Loomis Day, together, herald a distinctive atmosphere drawing attention to both student-athletes and non student-athletes alike. “The way Loomis Day brings out the competitive spirit of our students is really special,” said Mr. Barrett. “There’s a game that all of our student athletes have their eyes on, and that is what separates it alongside its tradition and history. It’s unique as it brings the campus together and acts as a special opportunity to connect all different activities throughout our school community.”
