Team Building at Norval

The other day, everyone in Middle School went to Norval, each grade getting a unique, team building activity to participate in. We were split up into different teams. Mine included Wilks, Eric, Emma, Jamie, Hayley, Thomas, Ethan and Brenna.

The activity we had the most trouble with was our first one, the Fire Swamp Crossing. There was an amount of land that was the "Fire Swamp", and we had to get across it with five platforms and three planks to connect it. I think that we had trouble with this because it was the first time we had all done this kind of thing that required this much team effort. However, soon Brenna gave us a great idea of using the rope as a sort of railing for support. We were pretty, no, VERY close to not having enough time to get all across, but, with lots of support and hard work, we all made it.

The team was very good at communicating with each other. When an idea was suggested, it may not be heard at first, but then if it was suggested again, a few people heard it and said "Hey, listen to this!" Each idea was considered, even if it ended up being turned down. And some things didn't even need to be said, we all just fell into place. Like when we were doing the King's Finger activity. Automatically, the strongest people lifted the lightest one, and others helped and supported them. I got into place as the spotter, making sure that if the one being lifted fell feet first, not headfirst. Thankfully, I never had to push them into position, and everyone escaped without harm (except for maybe a few sore wrists!). This is why we were good at communicating together.

Overall, I had a lot of fun at Norval. It was an amazing experience, filled with adventure, but also with a few risks and challenges. Together, however, we overcame them, having a good time in the process. The drum circle at the end was amazing, and rekindled a passion for beating the heck out of things, while making amazing music. Two great things in one! It was amazing, and I can't WAIT for next year.