It seems like everywhere you go someone is wearing goggles around their neck. It’s the middle of winter in Colorado so why do all these teenagers have swimming goggles on? This is due to a game called senior assassin that most high schools partake in during 2nd semester. Since the 2010s senior assassin has become quite popular due to its portrayal on widely watched shows like iCarly and Gossip Girl according to Parents.com. While the game is NOT affiliated with any of the high schools by any means seniors are able to participate in their game. People joining the game must pair up and pay a small fee to go towards the prize money.
The rules of the game seem simple; take a video of getting your target team out by spraying them with a water gun while avoiding getting eliminated. That’s where the goggles come into play. By wearing a pair of swimming goggles around your neck or on your head, you are safe from being eliminated. And you are only allowed to get your assigned target out. Sounds easy enough. All you have to do is remember to wear your goggles everywhere you go. Nope. Frenzy days. 
Frenzy days happen once a week and void the safety that goggles allow for that given day only. On these days anyone is allowed to eliminate any remaining teams and oftentimes it’s one of the only chances teams have to get their targets out. With a couple additional rules not listed the goal is to be the last team remaining, winning the prize.
Unfortunately, there are subtle downsides that are important to be aware of so they don’t become a reality. Because of the nature of the game with water guns, communities can be affected when they see a bunch of teenagers running around at night with squirt guns in their hands. CBS News Chief Truver emphasizes “the main priority is safety” and the importance of finding somewhere “safe.” Many areas are considered “safe zones” to ensure that businesses and spaces are not disrupted or put in danger.
Nonetheless, senior assassin is meant to be a fun game that unites the senior class during their last semester of high school. It involves strategy and teamwork that brings people together–or ruins friendships. Sometimes the rest of the school gets involved following the social media account @chattyseniorassassin2025 and cheering on their favorite team. The schools that participate in this event are often able to unite beyond just seniors, giving the underclassmen one of many things to look forward to in their senior year. Remember that it’s just a game and to have fun!
