This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Polk County High School Reindeer Games track and field meet, which will take place at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at the high school. 

The idea for the meet is the brainchild of Amanda Simoncic, who is an assistant coach.

Each year, the 25 or so participating schools pay an “entrance fee” of one can of food per athlete, with the proceeds donated to Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, which distributes the food to low-income residents. The students and athletes at PCHS take it one step further by encouraging the entire student body to participate. 

Last year, more than 3,800 cans were collected. This year, the goal is 4,000 cans.

Simoncic was inspired to give back to her community because she remembers that her family sometimes struggled to make ends meet when she was growing up.  She remembers many occasions where community members helped out of the goodness of their hearts. 

Fast forward to coaching track and seeing a need in the community, she said, “I know what it was like as a child not feeling like I could tell anyone we were in need.  One day, the coaches were sitting around brainstorming after practice, and the Reindeer Games seemed like the perfect way to love our community and our kids.  Personally, I want everyone, especially kids, to know that needing help isn’t something to be afraid of; there are genuinely good people that care and will help.”

Another point to make about this event is the long-term success of the PCHS track and field program.  Under the leadership of several assistant coaches and head coach Alan Peoples, there have been 47 individual and team state championships and many athletes have gone on to compete in college. 

Coach Peoples, who dresses up as Santa every year, said, “This is a way to help others, showcase our talent, have fun, and show the public what great student-athletes we have here in Polk County.”

The Reindeer Games would not be successful without the sponsors, the community, the PCHS family of athletes and coaches, and the athletes, coaches and families who come every year from across western North Carolina, organizers said. Each person who comes makes it possible and is responsible for the success of the games.

– Submitted by George B. Alley