The SHS Class of 2028 includes a notable number of freshmen who play on varsity sports teams, totaling approximately 36 athletes. After interviewing six SHS freshmen—all members of varsity sports teams—we determined there are many benefits to being a freshman on varsity: athletes can develop strong relationships with upperclassmen on the team and learn more about the sport so they play at a more competitive level.
Making mistakes is expected; however, if you’re a freshman on varsity, there is the advantage of having older teammates to guide you. Being a freshman on varsity also teaches leadership skills and grooms student athletes to move into more significant roles on the team. Freshman soccer player Andrew Borgman commented, “The most important thing I learned from being on the team was that hard work pays off.”
Many variables determine whether or not a student makes a varsity team: size, fitness, and skill. When the SHS freshmen and varsity athletes were asked what they did to prepare for the tryouts, all their answers boiled down to one word: practice. They practiced with friends, practiced twice a day, and always made sure to show up for captains’ practice. Some coaches might have a training plan for athletes to follow, but when there’s no plan, they practice independently. Freshman Grace Kroeger, a varsity soccer player, remarked, “I went to the field a lot and ran all the time.” Similarly, freshman Thomas (TJ) McGuiggin stated that to prepare for hockey tryouts, he “shot pucks at home.” The dedication of these freshmen athletes is unfaltering.
When asked about the downsides of joining a varsity team as an underclassman, a common answer was “pressure.” Multiple athletes expressed the intense pressure to perform in varsity athletics. However, freshman softball player Tess Beaudry claimed, “Playing on varsity can be stressful but also motivational.”
Being younger than your teammates means it’s easier to make mistakes, and your mistakes can be much more pronounced. Freshman lacrosse player Robert (Bobby) Naylor said that being on a varsity team can make you feel like a worse player because you are “playing with the best.” The extra work associated with these teams can also be challenging, but it is to be expected. This year, seven freshmen joined the ranks of the boys’ varsity lacrosse team. The girls’ lacrosse team also boasts seven freshmen.
Even with these downsides, when asked if they would recommend the experience of playing on a varsity team, the response was unanimous—yes. Freshman Marguerite (Maggie) Garrett, a varsity basketball and softball player, said, “Even on the bench, you learn so much,” and every athlete agreed the experience is invaluable.
Without a doubt, the freshman class includes talented student-athletes. In addition, it is clear that this group is committed and unwavering in its determination and will most certainly make its mark on SHS athletics.