In 2013, Arizona State Professor Katie Hinde created Mammal March Madness and 4 years later the great rivalry began between Mrs. Breetz and Mrs. Long in the bracket competition.

Five years later, the rivalry continues between the beloved freshman religion teacher and the former Local 12 Teacher of the Week.

“Several years ago, I taught both Honors and ACP biology, which means I had most of the freshmen, A biology test was coming up, so we decided that if her bracket beat mine, it would be an open note test for the students. (What the students didn't know was that it was going to be open note regardless!) And the rest is history,”said Breetz.

Being the very energetic teachers they both are, the rivalry escalated quickly and became known throughout the school.

“The rivalry has escalated since then with memes plastered in each other's rooms and plenty of friendly trash talk. It's been a great way to connect the two classes and build community. Especially when I'm winning! Yes, I'm very competitive, and I appreciate Mrs. Long graciously accepting defeat on a regular basis. She's used to it by now.” said Breetz.

The rivalry is just friendly competition but at the same time these two ladies are not shy to show how much winning it really means to them.

“I'm all for peace and harmony among all life on this planet we've been gifted. I do my part to recycle, I do not litter, and I treat all life as valuable. Along comes Mrs. Breetz to glorify these valuable animals slaughtering each other in a so-called ‘friendly’ competition known as March Mammal Madness,” said Long

Coming off a 2021 loss Mrs. Long claims to not care as much but it seems pretty evident that this “friendly” competition isn’t so friendly.

“Then to add insult to injury, she gloats and struts about when her animal is victorious. To be honest, I'm a little worried about her, and have suggested she seek some animal counseling; perhaps Rudy's services might be in order. I appreciate a friendly competition, but Mrs. Breetz gets a little carried away with this one,” said Long.

. Breetz has the natural advantage, being a Biology teacher, but this doesn’t stop. Long from keeping it close and competitive.

“I believe we've held this competition for 5 years and she is currently winning, 3-2. I mean, I'm no Biology teacher, but I seem to be holding my own,” said Long.

This is a huge year as Long could tie the lead or Breetz could solidify her lead which she seems confident in because of her final winner…

“Orca. Its other name is ‘killer whale’ ... and for good reason!” said Breetz.