No Off-Season: Winter Sports Start Off Strong
Junior Trinity Hodge prepares to shoot a free throw. (Vonshana Porter-Dubois / Eagle Talon)
As temperatures drop, athletes stay in shape and kick off with more sports.
As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, student athletes at our school gear up for a new season filled with energy, determination, and grit. From basketball courts to soccer fields, from wrestling mats to weightlifting platforms, winter sports are in full swing—despite the frosty weather.
For many students, balancing academics with athletics becomes even more challenging during the colder months. “It’s tough getting out of bed for early morning practices when it’s still dark outside,” IB junior Alex Perez said. “But once I’m on the field, the adrenaline kicks in.”
The chill in the air and shorter daylight hours can make it harder to stay motivated, especially when homework piles up after a long day at school. Still, the commitment to the team pushes athletes to keep going. Coaches and teammates often become a support system, encouraging each other to stay focused and finish strong despite the hardships.
Student athletes often face struggles adapting. “Getting ready to adapt between school time and basketball time can be one obstacle,” girls’ basketball player Tania Washington said.
(Vonshana Porter Dubois / Eagle Talon)
Finding the right balance between practice, games, and schoolwork requires a lot of planning and flexibility. It's not just about managing time but also adjusting mentally to switch between the demands of academics and athletics.
Time management becomes crucial as well. With limited daylight and packed schedules, student athletes must balance homework, practices, and games. This often means sacrificing free time and activities to meet demands for both academics and athletics. They must plan their days very carefully to accomplish everything.
Staying up late to complete assignments just to wake up early the next day is a lot on top of attending practices and games. The pressure to perform well in both areas can be very stressful, but it helps us learn valuable skills like discipline and organization. Finding a balance is the key to avoiding burnout and maintaining both physical and mental health throughout the season.
Despite the obstacles, the winter season brings a strong sense of school spirit. Student athletes often find that shared challenges create tight bonds with teammates, making the experience feel more rewarding. The excitement of games and the support from other students boosts motivation, helping athletes push through their tough days.
Whether it’s the roar of the crowd in the gym or the crunch of cleats on icy turf, winter sports at our school is an opportunity to show the passion of our student athletes. They don’t just play through the cold…they thrive in it.
(Alexander Monzon Perez / Eagle Talon)