By Lydia Woodburn
For first-year student-athletes at McNicholas High School, it’s a chance to make an early mark, but can also be a difficult transition from middle school to high school sports expectations.
Practices can be harder, the games can be more intense, and the overall competition might feel more serious. From early morning workouts to playing under the lights, many freshmen have accepted the challenge.
“It’s been difficult, but I’ve been able to push through,” said freshman Cross Country runner Farrah Yoshida, who shaved a full minute off her personal best this season. She said that despite struggling with shin splints, she shows up ready to every race because she said, “You’ve got to suck it all in and play through it.”
Henry Preece said that joining the football team was a step outside his comfort zone. As a first-time player, he admitted that the learning curve is steep—but he said he’s all in. “My goal was simple: to get a sack,” he said. “I love the people, and everyone is friendly.” He added that the team spirit has been a driving force, helping him push through the challenges of learning a new sport.
On the volleyball court, freshmen Emma Greene and Alexis Toerne said that team chemistry has been key to their progress. “We’ve improved a lot this season, especially in how we talk on the court,” Toerne shared. For Greene, a highlight came in a win over Fenwick. She said her trick for handling pressure is to “just take a breath and remember you’re playing for fun.”
Golf is the chosen sport for freshman Joey Bayer said his goal this season was to break a score of 44—and while he added that the competition has been tougher than in middle school, he’s learning to stay calm and confident. “It’s all about staying calm and not overthinking it,” he said.
On the soccer field, Elizabeth Wolfer said she is feeling the intensity of high school competition. “It’s been a lot harder than grade school,” she said. Still, she said she’s proud of the team’s 9-3-2 record. For her, team bonding week was a turning point. “There’s been a lot of connection,” she said. “We’ve really grown stronger together.”
Behind the scenes, many of the freshmen athletes said that support from upperclassmen, coaches, and the wider McNick community has helped them be successful in transitioning to high school sports. Cross Country coach Dan Rosenbaum said preparation and hard work have helped the freshman athletes be successful. “Many students have been performing very well this season,” he said. As the fall season winds down, Rocket freshmen are finding their footing in high school athletics. They’ve faced the challenge of tougher competition and faster-paced games, and are adapting to the demands of the next level. “Adjusting to the high school level has been difficult, but it’s been manageable,” said freshman Farrah Yoshida.
The McNicholas Milestone 