By Michael White and Damien Maniscalco
Even though some freshman students are still getting accustomed to their schedules and class work loads, others are adjusting to the new play styles of varsity sports. It doesn’t just take skill and talent.
For the handful of 9th grade varsity players, coming in as underclassmen means that if they want to earn a varsity spot, they have to show that they are ready to play at a higher level.
“[It is] a lot more intense and a lot of pressure to keep the pace,” says freshman Suzanne Prota, who plays on the varsity soccer team. “At center defense you play a key role on the team. You have to make sure your defense is even with you and make sure you help them if they get beaten up the field. You have to be in the right spot at the right time.”
Suzanne claims that playing with upperclassman helps her game a lot. “They push you to play better.”
Another freshman soccer player, Ethan Boileau, also claims that playing with upperclassman makes him work harder. Ethan is part of the boys varsity soccer team. As a freshman Ethan has been holding his own by scoring multiple goals and adding 4 assists in junior varsity for an 8-0 win versus North Haven recently.
“Soccer is a fun sport and it keeps you in shape,” he said. “People should give it a try.”
Like Ethan and Suzanne, Marissa Minore says that not only do upperclassman help improve her game, but her coaches do also.
“I like my coaches. They have been an excellent help to me,” she said.
Marissa says that playing varsity volleyball for the Hornets is not easy. For her first year, it’s coming more naturally to her as she progresses through the season.
“It’s a great sport to get into too,” she said.
Eleftherios “Teddy” Gionteris adjusted to varsity football fairly easily. He is a kicker on the team.
“From 8th grade football to varsity was a little different,” he said.
By different he means that from a kicker’s perspective, you have to build confidence in a new snapper and new holder to get the ball down in time so he can kick it correctly. Also Teddy adds that having confidence in your line is key because without them, it wouldn’t be possible to kick or punt. The varsity team is 0-3, but looking to turn their season into a winning season as they push themselves everyday to get better.
Another tough sport is field hockey. A starting freshman Jackie DaRos thinks moving to varsity sports as is “faster moving”. Jackie states, “I like the captains, they are friendly and inviting, just like the coaches.” The field hockey team this season is 5-1 and Jackie has contributed with 1 goal and many assists. Jackie invites all girls to join the girls field hockey team because, “People can learn a lot from joining.”
