By: Noah Ung, Staff Writer
For high school athletes, the transition from fall to winter sports isn’t just about changing uniforms—it’s about managing multiple pressures at once. As the days get colder and the stakes get higher, athletes must balance their commitments to sports with the stress of academics and sometimes even college applications, and the tempting lure of senioritis. The challenge is real, but for these student-athletes, staying focused, managing time wisely, and leaning on teammates for support is key to success.
Julian Mindel, a junior at MHS, switched from cross-country in the fall to soccer in the winter. For him, the rainy weather during soccer practices and games actually helps him focus more. “When I play in the rain for soccer, it helps me perform better because for some reason the gushing rain on the field helps me focus and removes all the other distractions,” Julian says. The weather, rather than being a challenge, becomes a tool that sharpens his concentration. This shows how athletes must adjust their mental approach to new conditions in order to stay sharp and perform at their best.
For Tyler Ngo, a senior who moved from water polo to basketball, the pressure of college applications adds a different layer of stress. “I balance training and competing with college applications and my academic commitments by making sure I’m taking enough time to study and keep good grades as well as get my college apps done,” Tyler explains. “If it means taking a day off practice, then I will do so.” Tyler’s approach highlights the importance of managing priorities during a busy season. He understands that academic responsibilities can sometimes take precedence, and he’s willing to adjust his athletic commitments to stay on track with his college applications.
However, even the most organized student-athletes face the challenge of senioritis. Tyler admits that staying motivated can be tough. “With senioritis, it’s become difficult to find the motivation to do work and classwork, but powering through that is what allows me to maintain good grades,” he says. While senioritis can be a major obstacle for many seniors, Tyler finds that his commitment to basketball helps him stay focused. “I look forward to practices so senioritis doesn’t affect my attendance,” he adds. His leadership role as basketball captain further motivates him to set a positive example for his teammates, showing how sports can help counteract the effects of senioritis.
Beyond individual strategies, Tyler emphasizes the role of their teammates in maintaining focus. As team captain, Tyler knows that his behavior sets the tone for the whole team. “To stay focused, I try to catch myself whenever I’m goofing off or not paying attention,” he says. “The team captain has to lead by example, and if I’m messing around, it sets the wrong tone for everyone.” This responsibility to lead by example not only helps Tyler stay focused but also creates an environment where teammates hold each other accountable, fostering a culture of mutual support.
The shift from fall to winter sports isn’t just about switching sports; it’s about managing a balance of academic, athletic, and personal pressures. For athletes like Julian and Tyler, staying organized, maintaining focus, and relying on their teammates are essential strategies for success. By navigating the challenges of senioritis, college applications, and seasonal adjustments, these athletes are learning valuable lessons in leadership, discipline, and time management—skills that will serve them long after their high school sports careers end.
