By Ashley Sun ’18, Staff Writer

In the beginning, when we see that the trees are stripped bare of their dusty, flaming autumn leaves, and when we are attacked by the brief invasion of Christmas songs over local radio stations, and later on, when we rejoice over ridiculously frequent calls from Newark Academy announcing snow days, we find there are many, many, things that mark the season of winter as unique, one of which, is the winter sports season. We realize that winter does not exist for the sole purpose of the extreme stress-inducing nightmares known as exams, instead, winter brings with it a brand new sports season for the middle school, with a wide variety of talented teams to look out for.

From team captains to benchwarmers, most everybody is required to participate on a team. This year, with the huge influx of boys playing the popular sport of basketball, many people ventured into treacherous waters, some taking it almost literally, by swimming. Eventually, many tried out a new sport, like fencing, or wrestling, and came to enjoy it. People can truthfully say that, even from a non-athletic standpoint, winter sports give people something to look forward to at the end of a long school day. Swim coach Mr. Rezvani says “I love winter sports. It’s great. Swimming has done extremely well, I’m very proud of our record. ” A few other coaches have given their perspective, many have stated that their team has exceeded expectations, Sports, as it seems, are not just physically demanding, but also require focus and enthusiasm. Sports have become a way to bond with team members and raise school spirit.

However, not everyone is an avid proponent for winter sports, as seen with a few people from all grades. One unnamed eighth grader had this to say about the season.  “To be honest, I don’t like the sport I was forced to do. I do not look forward to it, but am willing to learn a new sport.  No, I am not happy.” It was disheartening to hear the perspective from the other end of the sports spectrum, but it was important to recognize it. “There are very few eighth graders on the team, so I made lots of new friends outside of my grade. “ While it is clear that not everyone can be happy all the time, it is true that some people aren’t such big fans of winter sports. Some things, are simply not what you expect them to be. Despite not enjoying the playing aspect of the sport, at least, you get to meet new people, and make friends.

Despite its many whims, thanks to the athletic department for making it all possible, thanks to the coaches, thanks to the participants and supporters, because with them, middle school sports is possible.