Athletics Dept.

Athletics

Dear readers,

As the editors of the first and only issue of TheAthleticsDepartment, we are excited to introduce you to our magazine. Our team of four LASA high school freshmen have come together to bring you an exciting collection of articles on a variety of sports.

Our team has put together a diverse collection of articles on sports. Kamryn’s feature story is about how to determine what position to play on the soccer field, offering helpful tips for aspiring soccer players. Shone’s article explores the importance of interactions in tennis and how it can enhance one’s overall experience with the sport. Sankarshan piece delves into the benefits of athletics for students, highlighting how participation in sports can improve physical and mental well-being. Lastly, Gabe’s feature story discusses the significance of dieting in swimming, and how it can impact performance in the water.

To bring you the best possible Ezine we could, our team put in a lot of effort. We started by brainstorming ideas for topics and sports to write about. From there, we conducted research and interviews to gather information and quotes for our articles. We then began the writing process, editing and revising our work until we were satisfied with the final product. It was a challenging process, but we are proud of what we have accomplished.

As a team, we are particularly proud of the diversity of sports we covered in our Ezine. We wanted to make sure that our readers could find something that interested them, and we believe we have accomplished that goal. Additionally, we are proud of the effort and dedication we put into this project. We hope our hard work shows in the final product.

The coordination and collaboration within our team was an integral part of our Ezine creation process. It was crucial to ensure that every article contributed to the overall theme of the magazine and fit together seamlessly. Achieving this required effective communication and flexibility, and we faced some challenges along the way. However, we overcame them with our teamwork and dedication.

Our team is delighted to share TheAthleticsDepartment with our readers. Creating this Ezine was a fulfilling experience, and we appreciate our readers for taking the time to read and support our work. We extend our gratitude to our families and friends for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Our hope is that this magazine inspires you to stay active and get involved in sports.

Sincerely,

The Editors of TheAthleticsDepartment

Photo by Kamryn R. Reames. A dynamic orange soccer ball stands out against the lush green grass.This photo epitomizes the spirit of athleticism, making it a valuable addition to the Athletics Dept. magazine.

A lover of basketball and tennis, Shone Sarode is a freshman at LASA High School who values staying active. In his feature story, he provided a unique perspective on tennis, a sport he enjoys playing. Shone’s interests extend beyond sports, as he is fascinated by the solar system and is an avid reader. He hopes to make a positive impact through his work in the IT industry, inspired by his parents and the industry’s high-paying opportunities.

Meet the Editors

Possessing vast knowledge in technology and aviation, Sankarshan is a valuable contributor to the Ezine. He has professional experience in fields such as radio, aviation, and technology, and is also an avid basketball player and runner. Sankarshan’s feature story about basketball provided a fresh perspective on the game. He hopes to continue pursuing his passion for technology and using it to create a positive impact in the future.

Gabe is a LASA High School student who aspires to study medicine and astronomy. His favorite pastime is swimming, and he has a remarkable talent for it. Gabe’s feature story on swimming provided a fresh perspective on the sport. He hopes to use his passion for swimming to make a positive impact in the future. Gabe’s contributions to the Ezine have been valuable, and he hopes to continue pursuing his passions to make a positive difference in the world.

Kamryn is a freshman at LASA High School who loves playing soccer. The sport’s physical and mental challenges have always fascinated her, and she provided a unique perspective on it in her insightful feature story. Kamryn has been playing soccer for most of her life and considers it an integral part of her identity. She hopes to use her skills and knowledge to fight for justice and equality in the future, making a positive impact through her passion.

The Glass Cleat

It’s hard to find your position on the field

By Kamryn Rafael Reames

Photo by Kamryn R. Reames

This is the soccer field that the famous player, Alex Morgan, played on at NYC. With such a big space it’s hard to find what role you play on the field.

In the fairytale Cinderella, the prince searches for the girl that fits the glass slipper. In soccer, players search for their perfect position – their glass cleat.

Soccer is a sport that requires mental strength, physical strength, and passion. Finding out what position fita is a challenging task, each one is different and requires a varied set of skills. As you are getting older it is important to know what position best suits you. This is so you are practicing in that position. Charlotte Holland, who plays center back for Lonestar Soccer Club in Austin, said many players find their position by simply feeling it is the right one for them.

“I knew I wanted to be a defender because I wanted to be the change,” Holland said. “I wanted to be the reason the other team doesn’t score.”

way in order to protect your goal. It takes mental and physical strength. If defenders hesitate when going into tackles or they don’t have the mentality that they are going to win, they won’t succeed.

“I play soccer for two reasons, one is for competitiveness and the team you build throughout the year. The 2nd reason why is because soccer makes me happy, it is a place where I can just be myself and relax, forget about school and just focus on soccer.”

Defense is only a third of the game, there are still the midfielders, which includes left and right wingers. The job of an offensive

player is to score. Attacking players still have to defend, but their main role is to advance the ball. Azenath Velasquez, who plays left wing for Lonestar, said wingers typically need to have skills in one on one situations and be able to have skills on the ball.

“I knew I was meant to be a winger when I found out how fast I was,” Velasquez said.

The soccer field is filled with 11 unique positions. Players are taught that defense is a challenging task though. It takes more than just being able to answer yes to these questions. Defenders need to be able to put their body in harm’s

Imogen Hendrickse, attacking midfielder for Lonestar Soccer Club’s select program, said being an attacking player is challenging in many ways. Forwards must be fast and have a very strong mentality in order to score.

“I believe attacking midfielders decide when the game is won,” Hendrickse said, “Attacking midfielders are the playmakers on the pitch. They are in charge of controlling the midfield

This photo of Alex Morgan was by Kamryn R. Reames

Photo by Karri Reames Alex Morgan is considered one of the best stikers in the world. She plays for womens USA team.

-Audrey Jones, Lonestar goalkeeper

This is a young girl named Kamryn R. Reames. She is just sstarting her journey as a soccer player.

and switching the field. Oftentimes the game is won when your team has possession in the midfield.”

Goalies rarely play outside of their goalbox. Being a goalie means having to do whatever it takes to protect the goal. They put their bodies in harm’s way to do so.

Goalkeepers specialize in agility and reaction speed. Audrey Jones, goalkeeper, said being a goalkeeper can be exciting in many different ways.

“My favorite part of playing soccer is saving a goal or our team scoring a goal,” Jones said. “This

is because the amount of joy that begins to grow through the entire team is absolutely breathtaking and I would love to have that feeling just stay in my body forever.”

The first position a player tries may not be their glass slipper, but just try different ones until it feels

This is a picture of Coach Collen Pitts coaching her 08 team. This is during half time of a game.

right. Audrey said soccer teaches you valuable lessons that you can use for the rest of your life. It’s also a place where you can escape your problems.

“Soccer means everything

to me, without it I don’t know what would have become of me,” Jones said. “I believe that soccer has changed my life for the better and would have never changed it for the world.” A

Photo Courtesy of Lonestar Soccer Club.

On the left is a picture of Azenath Velasquez, on the right is a picture of Charlotte Holand. They both play for Lonestar Soccer Club’s select program.

Most Atteneded World Cup

Graphics by Kamryn R. Reames

Gearing Up For A Splash

The Effect of Equipment on a Swimmers Progress

By Gabriel Fowler

Photo by Gabriel Fowler

Every team needs a good pool to swim in. A pool is the basic tool a team needs to train.

SSwimming is a physically demanding sport that requires a combination of strength, endurance, and technical skill, so it is essential for swimmers to engage in a comprehensive training program that involves the use of various tools and equipment”, explained Mike Laitala, University of Texas swim coach

“Using a variety of tools and equipment is critical for swimmers to achieve their full potential,” Laitala said. “Each tool has its unique benefits, and when used in combination, they can help swimmers develop a more complete set of skills.”

Different equipment targets different aspects of a swimmer’s performance, such as technique, strength, and endurance. Swimmers are able to use a variety of pieces of equipment to target specific aspects of their performance.

“The range of equipment they use in their training programs includes kickboards, pull buoys, fins, paddles, resistance bands, and underwater cameras,” Laitala said.

The proper equipment is important, explained UT swimmer Sam Adler. The right tools can make all the difference in the world.

“Kickboards are great for working on kicking technique and isolating leg muscles,” Adler said. “Pull buoys are a small floaty that goes inbetween your legs and helps swimmers focus on upper body strength and body position in the water. Fins can improve a swimmer’s kick, while paddles can enhance the catch and pull phases

Photo by Gabriel Fowler Fins are used by swimmers to target their leg muscles.

are excellent for building strength and power, and underwater cameras can help swimmers analyze their technique and identify areas for improvement.

Coaches design workouts that utilize equipment specifically for swimmer’s needs

“The use of equipment is individualized to each swimmer’s needs,” Laitala said. “Depending on a swimmer’s strengths and weaknesses, different equipment can be used to target specific areas of improvement.”

Equipment can help a swimmer target areas that may be lacking in development. If a swimmer has a weak kick they may benefit from using more kickboards and fins, while a swimmer who needs to improve upper body strength may use more pull buoys and resistance bands.

“Using a variety of equipment not only helps swim-

Photos by Gabriel Fowler Eddie Resse (right) is coaching his college athletes on the importance of tools in swimming. Sam Adler (left) is swimming with a snorkel. It is important that swimmers learn this so that they can get the most out of the tools that are avaliable.

“The way you gear up can affects your physical and mental abilities”

Sam Adler, UT Swimmer

mers achieve their performance goals but also keeps the training programs fresh and engaging,” said Adler.

team culture.”

Using a multitude of tools at practice can create variety in a swimmers workout.

“It is essential to keep things interesting and challenging for swimmers to stay motivated and engaged in their training,” Laitala said.

“Trying out new equipment and seeing how it can improve their performance in the water is also exciting and dynamic, contributing to a positive

The use of a variety of tools and equipment is essential for swimmers to reach their full potential. Each piece of equipment has unique benefits that can be used to target different aspects of a swimmer’s performance. Using the right equipment at the right time, based on individual needs, can help swimmers achieve their goals and maintain a high level of motivation and engagement in their training

“Training with a multitude of different equipment really can be beneficial,” Laitala said.

“Whether the tools are used to keep swimmers engaged by making practices interesting, or targeting a certain part of a swimmer’s stroke, swimming with a variety of equipment will improve a swimmer’s performance.

“Competitive swimming requires discipline” A

Photo by Gabriel Fowler Swimmers use paddles regularly because of how they work their pulling strength.

Mike Laitala, UT Coach

Swimmer-G

Graphics by Gabriel

What To Eat

Breakfast: some protein rich foods such as Peanut Butter or Chicken some fruits (Blueberries,Strawberries, and Bananas) as well as Toast or an English Muffin. Lunch: Sliced Fish, Tomato, Boiled Eggs, as well as Yogurt and Fruit

Dinner: chicken, grilled fish, spinach, beets, sweet potatoes, and avocado

Whole grain cereal with milk, fresh fruit or oatmeal with banana or cinnamon. One to two hours before, the swimmer should also eat a light snack such as fresh fruit or a sports bar.

Oatmeal, Brown rice, Sweet potatoes or white potatoes with skin, 100% whole wheat bread and pasta, Grapefruit, Apple, Bananas, Blueberries, Cantaloupe

Whole grain cereal with milk, oatmeal with banana or cinnamon, fresh fruit or yogurt.

Pasta salad, plain sandwich, bananas, grapes, apples, dried fruit (raisins, craisins, apricots, mango), cereal bars, yogurt and unsalted nuts

fruit smoothies, yogurt fruit cup, fresh fruit or toast and jelly (or peanut butter with bananas). whole wheat pita and hummus, white meat sandwich, chocolate milk (protein and calcium to strengthen bones and feeds amino acids in the muscles), tuna salad, eggs, nuts, edamame, smoothie with dairy and omelets or fried eggs on toast.

Swimmers need a lot of energy

Gabriel Fowler

in order to perform

The Reason Behind It

Swimmers who are training intensely for more than two hours daily should eat four to seven light meals a day. Eating large meals or too much in one sitting will leave the swimmer feeling lethargic and will inhibit your performance. It should also consist of foods that are easy to digest. Carbohydrates should make up around half of a swimmer’s diet as it is the fuel swimmers need to get through a tough practice.

The swimmer should eat a high-carb meal two to four hours prior to a practice. The meal should be low in fiber and fat.

Eat little and often—every two to four hours to keep blood sugar levels steady and fuel muscles. Stick to foods that you are familiar with and avoid big meals. Do not overeat – you’ll feel lethargic on race day.

Eating breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and helps your body prepare for what is to come while helping maximize performance.

After a race or practice, the swimmer needs to eat as soon as possible for recovery. Snacks should consist of complex carbs and proteins, not simple sugars or foods high in fat.

Foods eaten after practice or a meet should contain carbs for fuel and protein for muscular repair and growth. The swimmer should also drink water to stay hydrated.

Balancing Act

The Demands and Rewards of Being a Student-Athlete

By Sankarshan Balaji

While being a student athlete, balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments can be challenging, according to division 1 (D1) college basketball player Colton Goodling. “Juggling practices, games, and workouts alongside coursework can be challenging,” Goodling said, “but it has taught me how to prioritize my responsibilities and

manage my time effectively.”

Goodling’s experience highlights the importance of time management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks to be successful as a student-athlete. This was true for Max Granger, a football player at Washburn High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Photo courtesy of Aphaxia

A basketball court is where the game basketball is played. While players spend a lot of time on the court, they still have to balance their studies outside.

“You have to plan out your day, from classes to workouts to study time,” Granger said. “You can’t let one thing dominate your schedule, or you’ll fall behind in everything else.”

Granger’s approach to time management suggests that it’s crucial to have a well-organized schedule to avoid being overwhelmed by the demands of being a student-athlete.

In addition to time management, Goodling said being a student-athlete can also help develop leadership and teamwork skills that can be applicable to non-athletic pursuits.

PhotoCourtesyMerry

“Learn how to communicate effectively with my teammates, lead by example, and make quick decisions under pressure,” Goodling said.

Sully Lewis, a high school Basketball coach from North Carolina, agreed, adding that Learning Communi cation as well as Learning Collaboration.

“They also have to work together as a team to solve problems and overcome obstacles, which can build important skills like communication and collaboration.” Lewis said.

Granger also emphasized the importance of teamwork, explaining that teamwork and working together is very important.

“Football is the ultimate team sport,” Granger said. “You can’t win without working together and trusting

your teammates.”

Granger added that these experiences suggest that being a student-athlete can help develop valuable interpersonal skills that can be applied to many different areas of life. That is why self care and stress management are important.

“I try to prioritize getting enough sleep and taking care of my body, whether that’s through stretching or foam rolling,” Granger said. “It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of basketball and school, but taking care of yourself is important for long-term success.”

From past experience in Football, Lewis agreed that taking well rests, and stretching is very important. Lewis also added,

“I try to take breaks throughout the day to recharge and clear my mind, whether that’s going for a walk or just taking a few minutes to meditate,” Lewis said.

While balancing the demands of academics and athletics can be challenging, student athletes have developed valuable skills and qualities such as time management, leadership, and teamwork. Granger said that by prioritizing self-care and stress management, he is able to excel both on and off the

Grace

An orange and black basketball with textured panels for good grip sits on a wooden court, ready for a game. Student atheletes need to be able to manage school as well as the ball.

court,

“Being a student-athlete has definitely improved my time management skills,” Granger said. “I’ve learned how to juggle multiple responsibilities and prioritize my time effectively. I’ve also become better at managing my energy and knowing when to take breaks to avoid burnout.”

Colton agreed with this statement saying that athletics has helped him with time management and that sometimes, he knows to take breaks with athletics so that he can prioritize his physical, mental, and school life.

“There have definitely been times when I’ve felt burnt out or fatigued from juggling basketball with academics,” Goodling said. “When that happens, I try to take a step back and reassess my priorities. I might talk to my coach or academic advisor about ways to better manage my time, or take a break from basketball to focus on my studies.”

However, being a student-athlete can also come with challenges such as burnout and fatigue, according to Colton . Colton explained that when he feels burnt out, he takes a step back to reassess his priorities and might take a break from basketball to focus on his studies.

“You have to take care of your body and mind, whether that means getting enough sleep, eating well, or taking a mental health day,” Colton said.

Colton also said it’s worth noting that student-athletes can

A professional Football Athlete trying to protect the ball while the defensive player attempts to stop the play. Before students can become professional, they have to be able to manage their academics and athletics.

“Diversity and inclusivity are essential values in athletics, as in all areas of life. ”

- Sully Lewis, Basketball Coach

Photo Courtesy of All-Pro Reels

face negative perceptions or stereotypes. He works to overcome these stereotypes by leading by example and demonstrating that athletes can be just as academically focused and accomplished as anyone else.

“Some people assume that athletes are not as academically focused or that they are ‘dumb jocks,’ which is frustrating and inaccurate,” Colton said. “To overcome these stereotypes, I try to lead by example and demonstrate that athletes can be just as focused and accomplished academically as anyone else. I also try to educate others about the demands and commitments of being a student-athlete, and the value that athletics can bring to a student’s overall development.”

The guidelines for being a successful student-athlete emphasize the importance of maintaining a good academic standing, and this is an important aspect of debunking negative perceptions and stereotypes.

Being a Student-athlete can be a very challenging but a very rewarding experience. Lewis said that he once had a student athlete that was struggling academically and socially, but he was able to push it and become very successful.

“I had a student on my team who was struggling academically and socially,” Lewis said. “Through basketball, he found a sense of purpose and belonging, and his grades and social life improved dramatically. He went on to play basketball in college and became a successful businessman, and he credits his experiences on the team for setting him on that path.”

High School basketball players trying to help each other to make sure that the ball does not get stolen. Student-atheletes are using collaboration and teamwork to achieve a certain goal.

Photo Courtesy of AllPro Reels

Shoot for

Scoring Higher

All-time highest points scored by basketball players:

Karl Malone

Micheal Jordan

Dirk Nowitzki

Wilt Chamberlain

Shaquille O’Neal

Carmelo Anthony

Lebron James

Kareem Abdul- Jabbar

Kobe Bryant

Moses Malone

the Stars

hicsandDesignbySankarshanBalaji

One-Point Shot

Any shot made behind the Free Throw Line that cuts the circle.

Grap

Three-Point Shot

Any Successful shot that is made behind this Line gives Three Points

Two-Point Shot

Every Single Successful shot inside the Three Point Line gives Two Points.

Making Points

The basketball point system.

Serving Up Connections

How Interactions Impact Performance on the Tennis Court

By Shone Sarode

Interactions in tennis go beyond the swinging of racquets and the striking of balls. According to Darin Pleasant, a tennis coach, they help form the foundation of a sport that thrives on communication, strategy, and connection, creating a dynamic experience that captivates players and spectators alike.

“Tennis is a sport that brings people together, and the interactions between players are a big

Photo By Shone Sarode

With their fuzzy surface, tennis balls are designed to connect with the racket strings, allowing players to unleash incresible topsin. On the court, players can connect with each other.

Kristen Rafael is poised to serve a tennis ball, with her eyes focused intently on the court. As a crucial component of the game, the serve is essential in initating each point, and can often determine the outcome of a match.

Photo By Shone Sarode

part of that,” Pleasant said.

The engagements between players, which can be verbal and non-verbal, encompass various forms of communication and exchanges between players during a match. The camaraderie of players plays a vital role in shaping the outcomes of matches, Pleasant explained. Observing a wide array of matches and the diverse interactions that unfold, Pleasant recognizes the profound importance of these exchanges in the sport’s dynamics.

“The connections on the tennis court form the foundation of the game,” Pleasant said, “shaping strategy, communication, and the overall experience.”

Verbal interactions involve players communicating through spoken words, which may include discussions with opponents, expressing emotions, or engaging in friendly banter to create a conducive on-court atmosphere, according to Kristen Reames, a former college tennis player.

“The conversations on the court can motivate, intimidate, or provide much-needed encouragement, impacting the mental game and influencing performance,” Reames said.

Pleasant said there is a profound impact of these ver-

bal exchanges in the sport. Through his extensive observation of various matches, he witnessed firsthand the diverse array of verbal exchanges that unfold on the court.

“Verbal interactions in tennis are very important, as they can motivate, disrupt, or encourage players,” Pleasant said.

Non-verbal interactions comprise of gestures, body language, and facial expressions that players use to convey messages, display determination, or exhibit sportsmanship during a match. Anders Eriksson, a United States Team Penning Association professional, recognizes the significance of non-verbal interactions in tennis. With his extensive experience and expertise, Eriksson keenly observes the subtle nuances of players’ non-verbal communica-

“Communication is key in tennis.”

-Anders Eriksson,USTPA Pro

“Interactions in tennis are the building blocks of the game“

-Darin Pleasant, Tennis Coach

“Non-verbal interactions in tennis speak volumes, as players’ body language and gestures provide valuable insights into their mindset, confidence, and strategies,” Eriksson said.

Within the context of tennis, interactions also occur between players and coaches. Coaches provide guidance, advice, and strategic input to players during breaks or timeouts, aiming to enhance their performance and decision-making abilities.

Player-coach interactions are significant, explained Dylan Smith, a college-level tennis player. Throughout his tennis journey, Smith has experienced firsthand the transformative impact of coaches, benefiting from their insights, tactical guidance, and unwavering encouragement.

“Player-coach interactions play a pivotal role in tennis, shaping not only our skills and strategies but also our confidence and mental resilience on the court,” Smith said.

It’s clear that interactions play a crucial role in the game of tennis, Reams explained. Whether it’s the way that players communicate with each other on the

court, the way that coaches give feedback to their students or the way that fans connect with the game, tennis is a sport that thrives on social interaction.

“Tennis is a social game,” Reames said. “It’s about getting out there and connecting with others who share your passion for the sport. That’s what makes it so special.”

Photo By Shone Sarode

As the primary instrument of the game, the tennis racwket is an essential part of a player’s tools. The proper tools help players form relationships on and off the court.

ACING TE IS COURT Understanding the Surface

Explore the layers of a tennis court and learn how they impact your game. From clay to hard ball bounce, and overall

Hard Courts

Hard courts, like the ones at the US Open, have a smooth, flat surface that feels solid underfoot. Beneath the surface, there are layers of asphalt or concrete, with cushioning materials for player safety. The surface is medium-paced, with a predictable bounce, favoring players with all-around skills, like Novak Djokovic, the 9-time Australian Open and 3-time US Open champion. It’s a versatile surface that allows for a variety of playing styles, making it a favorite among players and fans alike.

Sources: Allstartennis, My Tennis HQ, Neilson Tennis, Sportsmaster

COURT LAYERS

Surface Beneath Your Feet

Graphics By Shone Sarode

hard courts, this visual guide breaks down the surface beneath your feet and how it affects your shots, overall performance on the court.

Clay Courts

Clay courts, like the ones at the French Open, have a soft, red surface that feels gritty underfoot. Beneath the clay, there are layers of crushed gravel, rocks, and other materials that provide a stable base. The surface is slow, with high bounces and a slower ball speed, favoring players with strong defense and endurance, like Rafael Nadal, the 11-time French Open champion. Playing on clay requires patience, strategy, and adaptability, as the surface can be unpredictable and challenging.

Grass Courts

Grass courts, like the ones at Wimbledon, have a lush green surface that feels soft underfoot. Beneath the grass, there are layers of soil, gravel, and drainage material. The surface is fast, with low bounces and skidding balls, favoring quick-footed players like Roger Federer. Playing on grass requires skill, strategy, and adaptability, making it a unique and exciting experience.among players and fans alike.

Crossword Puzzle

2. Playing area for indoor sports, such as basketball or volleyball.

3. Round object used in many sports.

5. To gain a point or points in a game.

8. Object of some sports, such as soccer or hockey.

10. Tool used in sports such as tennis or badminton to hit the ball.

11. Person who trains and directs a team.

14. Protective equipment worn by players in many contact sports.

16. Playing area for outdoor sports.

20. Person who runs in sports such as track and field.

21. Footwear used in sports such as ice hockey or figure skating.

22. Barrier used in sports such as tennis or volleyball.

23. Player who catches the ball in sports such as football or rugby.

24. Group of players working together in a sport.v

1. Vertical posts used in sports such as soccer or football.

4. Reward for winning in many sports, such as the Olympics.

6. Player who throws the ball in sports such as baseball or softball.

7. Object used in sports such as ice hockey.

8. Playwer who protects the goal in sports such as soccer or hockey.

9. Tool used in sports such as baseball or cricket to hit the ball.

12. Protective equipment worn by players in sports such as baseball or softball.

13. Person who competes in sports.

15. Person or team that comes out on top in a game or competition.

17. Person or team that does not win in a game or competition.

18. Person who enforces the rules of a game or competition.

19. Object used in sports such as basketball to score points.

Dear Readers

Special thanks are extended to Kristen Rafael for graciously accepting our request for an interview despite her busy schedule in New York. We deeply appreciate her taking time out of her packed agenda to share her invaluable insights on tennis. Kristen Rafael’s achievements as both an athlete and a lawyer, currently residing in New York, exemplify her exceptional dedication and accomplishments.

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Charlotte Holland, who generously spared some of her precious time to provide us with a firsthand account of what it’s like to play on an 08 FDL team at Lonestar Soccer Club. Not only did she offer us valuable insights, but she also shared high-quality action shots from her club, allowing our readers to witness her skills in action.

Additionally, we would like to extend a special thanks to Azenath Velasquez, who, despite suffering from a sprained ankle, graciously provided her insights. We understand the physical limitations she faced during her recovery, and we are truly grateful for her time and willingness to share her perspective. Our gratitude extends to Kamryn R. Reames, who wrote her feature story despite having a broken arm. Kamryn’s commitment to her craft was evident as she pushed through adversity and contributed to our magazine. Despite sustaining an injury while playing soccer, her team’s triumph serves as a testament to her dedication and resilience.

Last but not least, a resounding thank you goes to Kevin Garcia for his instrumental role in teaching us how to navigate the intricacies of this complex technology. Garcia’s guidance and support inspired us to strive for excellence, and his unwavering presence whenever we had questions made a significant impact on everyone in the class. As a great mentor, Garcia’s contributions left an indelible mark on our journey.

Sincerely

editors of TheAthleticsDepartment