RANKIN INLET - On the surface, it simply looks like a large group of adults and youth playing a friendly game of softball on the Rankin Inlet baseball diamond.

But there's a lot more to the annual game between Maani Ulujuk Ilinniarvik (MUI) staff members and students than meets the eye.

Maani Ulujuk Ilinniarvik principal Jesse Payne does his best Mighty Casey impression during a staff versus students game in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - photo courtesy of Lisa Kresky

MUI principal Jesse Payne said the annual softball game is, in reality, a school spirit building day.

He said the staff/student challenge helps build school and team spirit among students and staff members.

"It's a time for us to get the students outdoors enjoying themselves, as well as also getting to know our new staff members," said Payne.

"The game has been going on for a number of years now, and it's become something both teachers and students look forward to.

"There's a little competition between the two sides, and that gets everybody geared up for the big win.

"This year, the students actually edged-out the staff members by one run in an extra-inning."

Payne said the game is especially important for new students coming into Grade 7 and also those in Grade 8.

He said the game is divided in two halves, with the junior students playing the first three innings and the seniors the next three.

"The junior students kept the staff members to just four runs this year," said Payne.

"So, when the seniors took over, they were able to haul out the win.

"When we have new staff members at the school, the game is also actually part of our orientation program.

"Students get to know teachers in a whole different light, away from the classroom, and that's very important."

Payne said when the students get to know their teachers away from the school, it often translates into better relationships in the classroom.

He said the game also helps develop a level of acceptance between the senior and junior students.

"Even though they play against the teachers in their own age groups, the students still interact very well.

"It's a big event for the first-year students, especially, because it's the first extracurricular activity that really makes them feel like they've arrived and are part of the school."