From the misty highlands of Scotland to the distant galaxies of a galaxy far, far away—Oak Hills High School's bagpipers are bringing a unique soundtrack to the sports scene. Students Mason Altman, Sam Beckman, and Nikolaus Tripathy are keeping a proud tradition alive that started back in 2013 for the Highlanders. These young pipers aren't just playing "Amazing Grace" or "Scotland the Brave"—they're mixing in everything from classic fight songs to epic themes from Star Wars, giving game days an unforgettable atmosphere that's part ancient tradition, part modern pop culture.
Their performances have become a signature part of Oak Hills athletics, adding a dramatic and celebratory note to everything from football games to basketball tournaments. For fans and players alike, the sound of the bagpipes echoing through the stadium is a signal that something special is happening. It's a tradition that connects the school to its Scottish heritage while keeping things fresh and fun for today's students.
Meanwhile, across the region, senior nights are in full swing. Oak Hills girls basketball celebrated its seniors—Rhianna Riep, Ava Kammerer, Ella Doyle, Giana Salzano, Karlee Parker, Serena Roberts, and Bella Dehner—with a special ceremony alongside the Highlander mascot and bagpiper. The boys and girls bowling teams also honored their senior athletes, including Jason Eby, George Gigous, and Gavin Johnson on the boys' side, and Kylie Ruthven, Rylee Knox, Maddie Broxterman, Ella Weinmann, and Kat Reber for the girls.
Little Miami had its own senior celebrations, honoring boys basketball seniors Gunnar Hoffman, Jase Hatte, Kwaku Boafo, Ean Fee, and Max Green, as well as cheerleaders and girls basketball standouts Emily Bayles, Mae Loffer, and Layne Ott. Over at Fairfield, the girls basketball team recognized seniors Kobi Crim and Jasmine Odubola, who were joined by their families for the emotional ceremony.
Villa Madonna celebrated both its girls basketball senior Dahlila Gorman and a dominant boys basketball senior night where all seven seniors—Jay Meyers, Lucas Workman, Michael Callioni, Luke Neuhaus, Michael Popham, Drew Thomas, and Tyler Brandstetter—scored in a 75–45 victory, a fitting sendoff for the class. And at Northwest, the girls wrestling team honored seniors Kymari Brinkley, Zaria Payne, and Kamiyla Howard Johnson, each celebrated with their families in a night that highlighted their hard work and dedication.
Whether it's the stirring sound of bagpipes or the roar of a senior night crowd, these moments remind us that sports are about more than just the game—they're about tradition, community, and celebrating the athletes who make it all happen. So next time you're at an Oak Hills game, listen for those pipes. They might just be playing your favorite theme.