By Hayden Sampson
The days are getting shorter, and it’s getting colder than 70 on some days. Yup, it’s winter out here in Arizona, and along with that comes the winter sports season. And this year’s sports promise to not disappoint. With basketball and soccer seasons just about to begin, we have three new coaches, and teams ready to compete on another level.
Returning Coach Megan Richardson looks to lead the girls soccer team to a playoff appearance under the leadership of captains and seniors Lily Welter and Lauren Casey. Says Lily, “We are so excited to see what we can do this year with so many returning players.”
Next comes the boys soccer team, led by new head coach Ferguson Sharp and senior captains Oliver Ricken and Josh Hudson. Joseph Patterson thinks the team is lucky to have them, saying, “We have such leadership for the team, and we are most definitely looking for a place in the playoffs.” Coming off a strong playoff appearance last year, the team is poised to do better than before.
Going from the field onto the court, basketball has some serious changes under way. With new head coach Jonathan Lambros, the basketball team has been working hard, and the results are showing. The scrimmage against Valley Lutheran supported this, as players from all grades made an impact on the game. Says senior captain Noah Teters, “It’s really hard and time consuming, but I’m glad we’re doing it. We are already so much better. We are more ready than ever.” Looking to make an impact on the league, things are looking up for our boys basketball team.
On the other side are the girls, with a strong return of leading players, and new coach Antonio McClary. The girls basketball team couldn’t be more ready for the oncoming season. Says senior Tykeria Jordan, “We’re ready to make some things happen.” They really do look ready to accomplish great things.
Under the direction of Coach David DeSilva III, the wrestling team is looking strong. Star junior wrestler Louis Ternyik states, “Our team is full of great wrestlers and I’m so excited for what they can do. As for myself, I’m looking to go deep into the playoffs.”
As is evident, our school is full of athletes, and this year promises to be an exciting one for sports.