According to Cambridge Dictionary, “powder puff” can be defined as “an insulting way of describing someone who plays a sport in a way that is considered weak and typical of women or girls.”

Of course, this is an older take on this amazing, empowering tradition and Principle Jeffery Sodl has a different take on this tradition, “The PowderPuff game is always a fiercely competitive game.  There’s no “powder or puff” happening out there, it’s intense.”

This annual Stroudsburg tradition took place on Nov. 21, 2024 at 4pm rain or shine. Each year, members of the junior and senior class sign up to be a part of this tradition: 25 girls from each class race to be a part of this enjoyable game, and 4 boys were able to sign on to coach these players in the basics of football.These spots are given on a first come first serve basis.

Cayla Hicks, advisor of student government, said, “Right when doors opened at 7am on registration day, I saw crowds of people rush to my room hoping for a spot on one of the teams; it was hard having to turn people away when the spots were full.”

This year the weather was less than ideal, with heavy rain and cold winds but all the girls were out on the field competing to win the money from the dress down day for their class treasury.

This annual tradition arrived at Stroudsburg over a decade ago, but the exact year is still a mystery. Many other schools around the country have made this tradition a part of their Homecoming festivities, but at Stroudsburg this tradition marks the end of the long wait for Thanksgiving break. 

The senior team won the game 16-12 this year, and now are celebrating their win by preparing for our long awaited fall break.