Field Hockey
The Varsity Field Hockey Team this year has added several new players who brought new ways of playing and new strategies to use on and off the field. With the team made up of many seniors, junior players have been following their lead to step up for the team next season. Running plays are a crucial part in field hockey, and working cohesively during games builds a close bond between teammates and coaches. Each year, the team has discussions in the beginning of the season to ensure that expectations are clear and that the team is set up for success entering the fresh season. Watching films have become a way of bonding with one another as they learn from new different perspectives on the field. It has also allowed to develop player communication, enabling new players to better understand plays. The team strives to be encouraging on game days, and efforts from both players and coach Meredith Williamson helps build the players’ confidence in running plays and formations on the field.
“We have all played together for a very long time and having new players allows us to learn something new that we didn’t know previously.” senior Tanner Wade said.
Golf
The varsity golf team consists of many upperclassmen determined to learn from their coaches. Senior players bring experience and have stepped up to be role models for athletes who plan on returning to the team next fall. Players connect with one another through the shared understanding of golf and help each other in stressful situations throughout the season. Golf is a mental sport, and taking the time to bounce back from unsuccessful matches is a way for coaches to remind players to have fun playing and that winning matches is not necessarily the most important thing. Coach Pearson’s strategies used by include humor and encouragement to help maintain a positive atmosphere for the team and to uplift players throughout the season. Coach Fisher works alongside Pearson and supports players during practices and matches, to ensure that they are focused and calm. This season, the team is continuing to learn from matches and to work on specific elements during practices.
“We are all just trying to make the most out of playing with each other this year and I think with our coaches, we will have a very good season together.” junior Nadiya Jackson said.
Football
Success in the game is often measured in the amount of wins and losses a team accumulates, but the varsity football team looks at it a little differently. With over 100 team members between junior varsity and varsity, the coaching staff works to lead the boys by example through displaying positive attitudes, promoting hard work ethics, and providing stability. As many coaches have played varsity football here, they provide first hand experiences to share with the boys and offer support when learning new plays. With the return of starting players, a large senior class, and a strong quarterback, coaches are determined to push the team to their full potential together. Players are focused on teamwork and collaboration throughout the upcoming season with the ultimate goal of making it to the state championship game. Other topics such as strong communication is a focal point , and working cohesively together with good attitudes comes with consistent practice and individual efforts both in and out of season.
“The best part about football is the grind from Monday through Thursday because you know that Friday is game day.” coach John Konoza said. “I would like to get a state championship rig on my finger.”
Volleyball
The varsity volleyball team faces this season with a driven coach and optimistic team. A large number of returning players on the team provides chemistry between athletes during games and encourages individual skill. Coach Cheri Hunter supports players with differing strengths on the team and supports athletes in growing both as a team and individual players. With practices being held since early August and lasting each day after school, athletes are encouraged to remember that academics come first and use provided time to complete assignments. Coaches even tutor athletes on school work if need be, and older players step up to help in previous classes that a younger player may be taking. The addition of a new, but experienced senior player, Madison Shifflett, also aids the team in formations and games as they prepare for another successful season.
“Coach Hunter is very passionate about what she does and pushes us to be our very best.” senior Isabella Williams said.
