Rumors spread fast in the Marist hallways but when MHS Media caught wind that official gym uniforms might be returning, journalists decided to find out if it was true. According to the head of the Physical Education Department, Mr. Brendan Heffernan, a uniform requirement for next year is likely.
For some students, the news comes as a total surprise. For others, it’s already sparking opinions, questions, and even a little nostalgia for the old red-and-white reversible shirts. Junior Emery Metzger said the change might actually make life easier for future gym classes.
“I was always having to sit out of the gym because I brought the wrong kind of clothes or just forgot,” Metzger said.
In recent years students in a physical education class have had the option of wearing their gym uniform or wearing their own clothes as long as it’s a Marist top and does not prevent a student from participating in class.
According to Heffernan, the decision comes after discussion within the PE department.
“We are discussing it, more than likely, the uniforms will be brought back next year,” said Heffernan.
The reasoning behind the shift is both practical and professional.
“It’s much easier to sort teams for games in gym class when everyone’s wearing reversible red-and-white shirts. It also just looks more professional. Students tend to take the class more seriously when they’re dressed for it,” said Heffernan.
The department has also seen an increase in students wearing their school uniforms during gym class which is unhygienic.
“There are too many kids wearing their school uniform and trying to say that’s their gym uniform. It’s also not great for students to wear the same clothes to the gym and then back to class all sweaty,” said Heffernan.
To help, the department is considering keeping extra uniforms in the locker rooms and even using the washers and dryers on site to keep gym gear fresh for when someone forgets.
The Marist gym uniforms will be available through the school bookstore and an online site Tommy Hilfiger, similar to how students purchase textbooks or their school uniforms.
The price for gym uniforms will remain affordable with gym shirts being priced at $11.50, Mesh shorts at $18, and sweatpants being priced at $24.
“I’ve already completed my gym credits and was in gym class, I can see how bringing back the uniforms could make some people mad. But I think it’s a good idea because you’re not worried about what everyone else is wearing,” said Metzger.
