Shaved heads a tradition for St. Johns boys swim team
Shaved heads and buzz-cuts – that’s the style for members of the St. Johns High School boys swim team as the 2014-15 season draws to a close. It feels awfully good to shed hair that’s not in the best of condition after countless hours of practice and swim meets around the area.
“Please, take it down to the scalp,” sophomore swimmer Justin Woodbury asked Redwings Barber Shop owner Tina Woodbury when he took a turn at being shorn of his dry, bleached-out locks.
The tradition of head-shaving most likely began in the 1970s according to coach Kim Brewbaker, who was a Redwing swimmer at the time.
“Probably no one knows for sure when it started, but it’s become something the guys have fun with every year. We typically do this prior to our league meet and the regional and state competitions, usually at one of the boy’s homes or the locker room at the pool. Being at a barber shop was really great.”
Hicks opened her shop in downtown St. Johns after regular hours so that the team could have full use of clippers and assorted barber equipment. She shaved some heads herself, and offered tips to potential future barbers who took turns shaving each other’s heads. Pizza provided courtesy of Deano’s Pizza was an added bonus in the barbering experience.
“We certainly appreciate the generosity of Tina and Deano’s,” Brewbaker said. “The guys truly enjoyed being at a real barber shop this time – it was great fun.”
Watching the team get trimmed was equally entertaining for the Redwings Barber Shop owner. “It was a pleasure being part of this and seeing everyone have a good time,” Hicks said.
St. Johns closed the season with a 10-0-1 overall record. Senior Brad Garmyn qualified for four events at the state meet that takes place March 13-14, as did the 200 and 400 freestyle relay and 400 medley relay teams.
“All the swimmers and divers have worked hard this year, and we’re proud of their accomplishments,” Brewbaker said.
