Trying a new sport can be scary, but students who are brave enough to take on the challenge seldom regret it. 

“I decided to join track because it will be fun being around people and being part of a team. I am looking forward to bonding with my teammates. I am also excited to be running the 4×4 and trying out hurdles”  junior Miguel Diaz said. 

Playing sports is a great way to expand a student’s social circle and for them to create friendships. 

“I was scared to join track earlier because I was a freshman and I felt like I wouldn’t really fit in. But after learning more about the sport and meeting new people, I am super excited to be a part of the team,” sophomore sprinter Sarah Migl said. 

The fear of not fitting in or not being able to perform well compared to other athletes is what stops most students from joining new sports. Getting past these challenges can help students thrive. 

“I did not decide to join soccer until my senior year of high school. I just was not sure how I felt about it, but some of my friends on the team convinced me to play and now I really love it. It’s nice to be on a team and surrounded by support,” senior PJ Branch said. 

Joining a new sport comes with new responsibilities. 

“Track practices are definitely hard. We run a lot even if we are just in sprints, but the overall payoff is good. Track helps me stay conditioned and in shape, which ultimately makes not only my physical health better, but also my mental health,” senior thrower Luke Osborne said.