Photo Taken from Google via Creative Commons License

Phil captures the attention of thousands every Feb. 2!

On Monday, Feb. 2, the annual celebration of Groundhog Day occurred in Pennsylvania with beloved groundhog Punxsutawney Phil. For those of you dying to know, yes, Phil did in fact see his shadow, meaning there are six more weeks of winter (although it doesn’t feel like winter in the California heat).

Thousands, yes, thousands of people gathered to witness Phil’s prediction. While we were not able to be in person with Phil, a few Royals and Friars shared their personal opinions on Groundhog Day!

Starting off strong, Friar Sonny Bahtia ’26 gave us his honest thoughts: “What is Groundhog Day?” It sounds like someone needs to brush up on his mammal meteorology knowledge. On a different note, Ivan Cardenas ’26 believes that Groundhog Day deserves more attention because of how helpful it is in predicting the weather. Little does Ivan know, Phil is only accurate 39% of the time. When asked what his name would be if he was a groundhog, Ivan answered, “My name would be Jason. I think it’s a fun and unique name.” It’s no Phil, but Jason is a great choice. Overall, Ivan thinks that Groundhog Day should be recognized more in high school.

Rosary senior Harper Clark wanted to share her thoughts on this unique day. She wishes that Groundhog Day got as much love as it once did in elementary school: “I remember doing fun activities and guessing before he saw his shadow or didn’t.” Phil does get more attention from younger kids, but Harper thinks he should be just as important in high school. Sophie Figueroa ’26 agrees, claiming, “Continuing to recognize Groundhog Day while in high school would be something that keeps fond childhood memories alive.” Sophie sees the day as a fun tradition that makes for great conversation and says that her name would be Sunshine if she were a groundhog. Everyone seems to be on the same page so far; let’s see what else our Rosary and Servite students have to say.

Servite sophomore Colton Keil brings a new perspective to the table: “I think it’s a cool day that’s rigged secretly.” Interesting take, Colton. He goes on to explain that he believes there is a group of people behind the whole thing who are controlling the weather. Maybe that’s why Phil is not right very often; someone is fooling Phil! Colton is not a huge fan of Phil, blaming him for longer winters.

Colton’s fellow Friar Aiden Canlas ’26 explains his thoughts, saying, “It’s funny how people act like Phil has secret weather powers or something.” Aiden enjoys the randomness of the holiday and believes it’s all just for fun. He continues and shares what his groundhog name would be: “My name would be Shadow, since that’s kind of the whole point of the day.” It’s a bit ominous for a groundhog, but still cool!

Ending off on a positive note, Peyton Saunooke ’27 exclaims, “I think sometimes Phil is wrong, but it’s ok because he’s cute. If I were a groundhog, I would definitely want to be named Greta the Groundhog.” That’s such a great name, Peyton. She ends with some much-needed love for Phil: “I love Phil!”

Anyways, I don’t know whose idea it was to make a groundhog a meteorologist, but it is a fun annual tradition! Do you think Phil will see his shadow next year?