Black is the New Red

Ten years ago, what is considered to be one of the most spirited high school student sections in the South Bay was formed. Red Tide was created in 2005 when a senior at the time, Dane Bryant, organized a school wide spirit group for the Varsity boys’ basketball team. He and his four pals led this section, called Boyd Nation at the time (after basketball coach Boyd), wearing scarves and other red accessories

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The boys soon found red jackets at a Salvation Army and began to wear those. They brought school spirit and pride to the games, even when the team lost. The following year, Red Tide hit the football stands. It has gone almost unchanged until now. After so many years of unwavering tradition, Red Tide has officially been altered. The student section is still fully intact; however, the Red Tide presidencies have been formally nixed by school administration as of September 1, 2015.
Although there are many different rumors circling around about what really caused this sudden change, Principal Dr. Charles Park stated, “The reason for that decision to dissolve the leaders of Red Tide was my decision, one hundred percent, and the reason for that decision I would say is like an accumulation of things, it’s not dependent on any individuals.” He clarified that this change was not solely based on events from this year, but would not go into detail about what specific factors influenced his decision. “As a leader of PV High, it’s important that I put students in the best position possible and it’s also important that we have the best perception of our school from the community and that’s all part of it,” Park said. With this change now fully enforced, the elected Red Tide presidents have different opinions than the school administration.
“I disagree with the school for abolishing Red Tide presidents,” senior Cole Tournat stated. His fellow former Red Tide presidents had similar opinions. Former Red Tide President and Varsity football captain Kyle Messinger explained, “When the changes first happened, of course I felt a lot of anger and frustration and a feeling of betrayal from an administration that never even gave us a chance.” He then went on to say, “I think the most bothersome part though was the way certain administration members went about doing it. We were given basically no real reason or explanation and it seemed as if we were just the scapegoats for an issue that they didn’t know how to deal with.”
Senior Nick Johantgen said, “Although I never agreed with the administration’s decision to dissolve the captains, I understand it and all I want to do is move forward.” On the contrary, a PVHS faculty member who wished to remain anonymous said, “The Red Tide today, wants to be revered like the Red Tide of 2005 – returning to its original purpose of supporting student athletes, grooming student leaders, and creating a bond between the students, the staff, and the community. These are the core principles of Red Tide.” The faculty member believes that changes, instead of abolishment, could help restructure the culture and lead to positive change for the Red Tide.
“Maybe PVHS is at crossroads where material changes need to be made, such as putting a red jacket, black jacket, or the original red headband on a girl too, or restructuring the organization to be more manageable. Or, maybe having an adult adviser who actively and consistently works with Red Tide leadership and its members.”
The faculty member then went on to explain that Red Tide should not “wash away,” but the undertow that was set in motion two and a half years ago needs to be removed.
In response to the decision by administration, the Red Tide presidents have been recently seen wearing black suit jackets on game days instead of the traditional red blazers. This new development is the result of the Red Tide presidents coming “back in black” and brings new goals for these six students.
“Our main goal of being back in black is to prove a point that this is much bigger than ourselves. It shows that even if you try and take away the jackets and try and silence the mob we will not simply sit back and let our traditions and legacies be destroyed,” Messinger said. When asked about his aspirations for the year, Senior Matt Dellovade stated, “My general goal is to get Red Tide back to what it was without the administration’s involvement.”
Although the absence of official Red Tide presidents may make students reconsider attending the games, the presidents will still be there and encourage the students to come as well.
“The most important thing to us is that our football team has the support they deserve and the new black jackets were bought to help continue the tradition and enhance the experience for every Sea King,” Johantgen explained. He went on to state that he hopes for every student to attend the football games, even if the Red Tide presidents cannot.
Messinger said, “It’s so important for people to go to the games still and cheer on all of our sports teams because our student cheering section, whether it be Red Tide, Black Tide, or even just a title-less PV student body, the energy we bring represents the entire essence of our school.” After accepting the changes and deciding to make their own legacy, the now Black Tide presidents had a little more input to give.
“I just want everyone to know that there will always be rumors and people doubting you, but it’s up to us to rub that kind of stuff off and do what we love, and to me that’s leading the greatest high school out there.” Johantgen stated.
Tournat emphasized, “The six of us are still going to be there and we’re still leading Red Tide and it’s going to be as good as ever. Back in black.”