With the end of the 2016-2017 school year just around the corner, we find ourselves coming full circle once again with the start of a new sports year. Many sports teams hold camps and unofficial tryouts during the summer, meaning the time to think about the 2017-2018 season is now.

Teams not only face the annual loss of their graduating seniors, but that of soon to be juniors who simply played until the two year physical education requirement was met and others who quit to focus on academics. As a result, coaches are left to piece together what they believe will be a successful team.

Men’s golf coach Mr. Claborn explains, “we are looking for five players to fill the Varsity and JV team. We try to keep seven or eight on each team.” Men’s golf will not be holding a traditional summer camp. “There will be 9-hole tryouts and they will likely be every Thursday starting in late July,” says coach Claborn. Men’s golf is looking for players who have an interest and motivation directed towards the sport. “It’s not the type of sport you pick up quickly,” explains Claborn, “if kids are interested in being on the team, they need to start over the summer, take lessons and play a lot of golf… at least once a week.” Potential players should contact coach Claborn at: [email protected]

Women’s volleyball is also looking to fill teams. Coach Owens explains that he will have a hard time replacing some of his key players that are graduating this year. From these starters he says what he will miss the most is their “leadership, fearlessness and obviously experience.” He says it is difficult to replace star teammates and one of the key characteristics he looks for in his players is an overall good attitude. Owens notes which players get along with the other girls on the team and takes that into account when moving girls around to create a winning team. He hopes for around 30 incoming freshmen to try out and says he would really like to see someone who is coachable and hard-working. Contact Mr. Owens at: [email protected]

Men’s basketball, as well,  will face the difficulty of forming a new team due to the loss of 10 seniors. Senior starter KZ Okapala states that the team is in desperate need of someone who is “big and tall.” “Maybe a good center, guards, just people that can handle the ball and pressure,” he claims. Since the team is in for a big change as they head into a regrouping year, students are encouraged to try out and help further develop the talents of the future teams. For more information on camp times and tryout dates, contact coach Matthews at: [email protected]

No matter what sport you are considering, do not hesitate to get in contact with the coaches. Showing initiative and responsibility may be the push you need to prove your character before you can let your abilities speak.