Pack the Den Games

Eliana Bravo ‘28

Pack the Den has quickly become one of the most energizing new traditions in St. Mark’s athletics, drawing students into the gym and transforming regular home games into high-intensity events. What began as an initiative created by the Monitors and the Athletic Department to boost attendance at winter matchups now consistently fills the bleachers and reshapes the atmosphere of game day.

Players say they feel the difference immediately. “I love seeing my peers come after their practice to watch and support me play the game I love,” said Monitor Bleu Kerr ‘26. “ I feel the energy from the bleachers, and nothing compares to it.” That surge of support has become a defining gesture of Pack the Den, giving athletes a louder, more unified crowd behind them.

The event also brings together students who might not normally cross paths. With grades and friend groups mixing in the stands, the rink, gyms and courts become rare spaces where the entire school gathers with a shared purpose. Some students come for competition, others for the atmosphere, but everyone contributes to the noise and momentum that makes the night feel bigger than a typical home game. 

Behind the scenes, Pack the Den requires significant coordination. According to Athletic Director Ms. Ames, organizing each event involves estimating turnout, preparing food, and managing logistics to ensure the night runs smoothly. The athletics department hopes to expand the tradition across all three sports seasons, aiming to build consistent school-wide engagement and invite more families and community members to join the crowd. 

As it continues to grow, Pack the Den is becoming more than a themed night; it is a marker of school spirit and a reminder of the power of collective support. For players and fans alike, the event has redefined what it means to show up for St. Mark’s athletics.