By Kate Fishbone ‘22, Sports Editor

As fall sports came to a close, the immediate next thought was winter sports. Would they happen? Would there be a full season? Although the winter season is not entirely predictable, currently there is a plan for the pursuit of winter sports at Newark Academy. With enough patience and cooperation, NA students will be fortunate enough to play winter sports. 

Due to the coronavirus, the winter season was pushed back, but that did not stop the athletes. Instead of starting right after Thanksgiving break, the seasons for basketball and fencing started a week after winter break. Despite this delay, the teams worked with strength coach Youthser and improved their fitness. When the season finally did start on January 11th, they were ready to get right back into it. 

Unlike basketball and fencing, swimming, winter track, and wrestling were not able to start at the same time. The close proximity of the athletes in a small area is not ideal when it comes to coronavirus, so those seasons are on hold. The teams for swimming, winter track, and wrestling are much bigger so it is more difficult to accommodate them compared to basketball and fencing. Hopefully, they will start as planned on February 1st. 

To adjust for coronavirus regulation, new policies have been implemented regarding games. All preseas on trips and tournaments were cancelled. In addition, no spectators outside of the teams, coaches, and trainers are allowed at games. To watch games, spectators will need to view the livestream. 

However, the teams in action are preparing for a competitive, enjoyable season. First is the girls’ basketball team. After losing only two seniors, they are destined for a successful season in which they will continue to play aggressive games and put up a fight against every opponent. With talented freshmen joining the team, strength comes from every age level. Girls head basketball coach, Coach Bona, says, “I’m very excited for this season, especially after everything going on with coronavirus. We have a young team, and everyone works extremely hard. I look forward to improving everyday.” 

The boys’ basketball team hopes for a strong season, as well. Led by captains Alex Fishbone ‘21, Rashad Freedman ‘21, and Chase Clarke ‘22, the team is headed for success. With both a varsity and junior varsity team, the team has the numbers to dominate this year and years beyond. 

The third team currently practicing is the fencing team. Coming off of a very successful season in which the boys’ team won the state final over Ridge, the team hopes to keep their momentum going. With lots of returning talent, the success should continue into this year. 

Although the winter season has not begun for all, some teams are already working hard in the gym. After only one week, they have practiced for hours and worked incredibly hard. Despite the delayed start, all three teams are prepared for the season that lies ahead and to take on their opponents.