In the time of the pandemic, students are getting less and less social interaction. Luckily, some of the clubs at Loy Norrix are ready to provide that. 

The clubs that are running online are the Gender Sexuality Alliance, the Esports Club and the Female Empowerment Club. 

Patrick Greeley, teacher and advisor of the Loy Norrix Esports Club, said, “There are two sides to the esports club: the competitive gaming part where we field teams against competition both in-state and nationwide. We also have the casual gaming side where students get together and play some games with their friends and new people.”

One of the changes that the Esports Club has seen while practicing remotely compared to in-person is that they can’t meet in person anymore. 

“We don’t have face-to-face meetings anymore, but we are able to meet in-game and chat on Discord,” said Greeley.

Karmani Williams, a junior and one of the four leaders of the new Loy Norrix Female Empowerment Club, said, “Our club was made to promote the voices of women in Loy Norrix and educate people about issues that women go through. We also educate people about powerful women in the history of the world.”

Williams stressed that the club is inclusive and currently recruiting new members. This is the club’s first year and the pandemic has made “planning meetings and doing club activities… rather difficult,” said Williams.

John Kreider, librarian and advisor for the Loy Norrix GSA, said, “The GSA is a safe space for LGBTQ+ students and their allies. It is open to all students. We get together to support each other, learn about LGBTQ+ history and social justice, and care for each other’s social and emotional well-being. We invite guest speakers from community organizations, and mostly just enjoy each other’s company.“

The GSA started online meetings in the spring when the pandemic first started.

“I was hearing a lot of students say they were feeling lonely. I was feeling lonely too! It’s important to maintain connections with supportive people,” Kreider continued. “We’re trying our best to create a safe space for any students who want to join us.” 

If you would like to join any of these clubs here is their contact information.

E-Sports: @loy_norrix_esports_club on Instagram, @LNHSEsports on twitter, [email protected] 

Female Empowerment Club: @lnhs_fme_club on Instagram, [email protected]

GSA: @Loy_Norrix_GSA on Instagram, [email protected]