By Elise Gobron ‘21
Sports are an integral part of the St. Mark’s experience. We form tight bonds and meet our closest friends during practices. We work together and support one another during every game. Sports are essential in forming the close-knit community that makes St. Mark’s feel like home. But, St. Mark’s is determined to continue with sports to the best of their ability given the unfortunate circumstance. Fall sports are thankfully able to practice this season, however, these practices look a little different than previous seasons. The Athletics Department has implemented social distancing rules and mask requirements in order to keep students safe and healthy. Students can be seen in their masks at practice every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, while Wednesday practices are reserved for Spring teams to make up for their canceled 2020 season.
Varsity Girls Soccer captain, Brook Farrel ‘21, had nothing but gratitude for the continuation of the fall 2020 season. When asked about the fall season Brooke said “[she’s] just really happy and grateful that we are actually able to practice together and still have that team atmosphere.” As a Senior, she’s saddened by the fact that her last year on SMJVS will not include some of her best memories such as the team’s victorious games against other ISL teams or bonding over team dinners. However, Brooke is glad that she and her team can still play together during this unsettling time and have a nice break from the craziness that the school day brings.
Varsity Boys Soccer Captain, Tommy Flathers 21’, also shares a similar view. To adjust to the new COVID-19 safe rules, Tommy and his team are taking this time to focus on skills and physical fitness in place of games and scrimmages. The team’s determination to keep up their lively and fun atmosphere is admirable. Tommy said that he and his team are “trying to find ways to make it fun and enjoyable for everybody.”
Just as the fall athletic teams are experiencing major differences in their sports seasons, the Athletics Department must also undergo adjustments in order to safely meet the needs of these student-athletes. Coaches have been consistent in wearing their masks and following protocol, setting a good example for student-athletes and others on campus.
Head Athletic Trainer, Ashley Maddock, has also been adjusting to the new athletic training guidelines. With an emphasis on maintaining social distancing rules, athletic trainers must focus on asking more questions in order to better help student-athletes. Just as Ms. Maddock says, “The more [they] can figure out from questions versus physical contact, the better!” In addition to this new athletic training approach, the Athletic Training Room has been moved outside. This way, athletic trainers can more safely handle a larger capacity of athletes.
Going around to watch all of the fall sports on Saturdays has always been one of my favorite St. Mark’s activities so not being able to have games is definitely a bit sad for me. Between the grand celebration of Groton night and cheering our talented athletes on as they play, athletics is a big part of the fall season that I, among many others, am missing. However, I admire St. Mark’s dedication to maintaining fall athletics as safely as possible. While it is still uncertain what COVID-19 will bring about for the winter and spring sports seasons this year, I know that St. Mark’s will continue to be resilient in preserving our athletic opportunities that help bring the entire community together.