RATHDRUM — Lakeland High School went big for the 2026 Battle for the Paddle.

But then again, the Hawks always go big for this school-unifying event.

"Battle for the Paddle is part of the heart of the Lakeland community and culture," senior spirit leader Amelia Hamburger said Thursday.

Since 2022, Lakeland has raised $143,782 for charitable causes through Battle for the Paddle, the annual spirit, basketball and wrestling competition against Sandpoint High School. The most recent event, held Jan. 16, raised nearly $27,000. Lakeland toppled Sandpoint in the spirit competition, winning the Paddle for the seventh consecutive year.

“This year with their Western theme they brought a lot to the table," senior and ASB treasurer Charlie Mattila said. "This was the best they’ve ever done since I’ve been around, at least. We love Sandpoint and all that they bring to the table.”

Lakeland's theme for the 10th annual Battle for the Paddle was a zombie-centric "Hawk Apocalypse," or "Hawkocalypse." Student council leaders rallied the student body through spirit days and teacher dares, which helped to meet fundraising goals. 

Principal Jimmy Hoffman had to bleach a hawk's head into his hair. One teacher was slapped by a fish, another had to wear her wedding dress to school, several others had to sing karaoke in the hallways and during an assembly, and Journalism teacher Mike Dunn had his hair chopped into a mullet.

“And he’s still rocking it," said Lakeland Student Council adviser and assistant varsity girls basketball coach Carmen Gfeller.

ASB secretary and Senior Class President Lilly Dotson was the lucky student who gave Dunn his new 'do.

“It was incredible,” Lilly said with a giggle. “It was like my best moment from high school."

Senior and ASB President Daniel Killian said 70% of the funds Lakeland raised from Battle for the Paddle will support the Rathdrum Lions Club Weekend Backpack Program, which helps feed kids on weekends and school breaks. The remaining money will go to the Lakeland Strong Fund, a district-wide resource that supports Lakeland families in need.

“A few years ago, a family needed help with medical bills,” Daniel said. “It’s to help families locally.”

Raffles with exciting prizes greatly contributed to the fundraising, including a paddleboard package donated by Idaho Central Credit Union, a Blackstone from Ace Hardware and a gift from the Seattle Seahawks.

"They donated a signed football from the whole team,” Daniel said.

He said he was extremely grateful for the support from local businesses and the community as a whole.

“I stood outside Bi-Mart selling tickets," Daniel said. "A lot of people, once they heard it was for local causes, they really stepped up and bought tickets. It was really great to see our community coming together."

Sharing advice for next year's student organizers of the Battle for the Paddle, Amelia said it's imperative they don't give up.

"It feels really difficult at some points, it feels like you’re fighting, but it’s completely worth it," she said.

Daniel said next year’s leaders shouldn't take for granted that Lakeland has won the Paddle for so many years.

“Don’t be complacent,” he said. “It’s really important that you stay hungry for the victory. You need to put the effort in or else you’re going to get smoked. Sandpoint is going to bring their all every year to win this thing."

Charlie thanked teachers and administrators for their help.

"They’re the ones who really helped us behind the scenes to get everything finished," he said.

Having a first-year adviser, the Lakeland Student Council students offered their institutional knowledge and experience, which was most welcome.

“Step up their game is the right way to put it,” Gfeller said. “I know they were stressed, but I know they did everything that they could to make this a productive year. The results speak for themselves.”

She said the students' fundraising accomplishments blow her away.

“Rathdrum’s not a big community, but it just goes to show how invested the community is in its members," Gfelle said. "That part of it is really inspiring, but these kids, they work their butts off."

    Lakeland High School Student Council leaders hold the coveted Paddle in the gym on Thursday. Their school has won the spirit trophy at the annual Battle for the Paddle against Sandpoint High for seven consecutive years. From left are: Daniel Killian, Amelia Hamburger, Charlie Mattila and Lilly Dotson.
  

    Senior Class President Lilly Dotson shaves journalism teacher Mike Dunn's hair into a mullet as part of the 2026 Battle for the Paddle teacher dare festivities.

    The "Hawk Apocalypse" Battle for the Paddle 2026 winner flag hangs in the halls of Lakeland High School.