Final year as high school athletes sparks reflection

SOLEIL DAM

For seniors who have been playing sports all of their lives, this upcoming sports season is bittersweet. However, some studentathletes are continuing their sports careers in college.

“I am sad to be leaving Carlmont, especially after all of the great friends and memories I’ve made, but at the same time, I am super excited for next year,” said Gabby Lee, a senior softball player at Carlmont.

However, for most seniors, their final year of high school means it’s their last year representing their school through sports. Sports are often a safe place for many athletes to enjoy themselves. Many students’ final year of high school sports has sparked a period of reflection about their sports careers.

GARy NAKA

Ethan Matsuda - Lacrosse

SOLEIL DAM

How do you feel about your last year as a high school studentathlete?

Being our last year, I definitely want to make the most of it but, at the same time, it is a little bittersweet because this might be the last time I get to play on the field.

When and how did you start playing lacrosse?

I started playing when I was in eighth grade, but I’ve been playing sports my whole life. At first, I didn’t have any interest in lacrosse, but my friend asked me if I wanted to try it with him, so I gave it a shot.

What has been your favorite part about being a lacrosse player?

I’ve always had a competitive nature. When it came to sports, being able to go out on the field and compete against teams you don’t necessarily like, that’s really my favorite thing.

Are you pursuing lacrosse after high school?

I don’t plan on playing lacrosse in college, but if the opportunity arises, I can definitely see myself continuing to play lacrosse in college.

SOLEIL DAM

Tanner Van Why - Baseball

How do you feel about your last year as a high school student-athlete?

It’s very exciting, but at the same time, it’s sad to leave a place where I’ve called home for 17 years. I’m ready to move on with the next chapter of my life, and I’m ready to go to college to play my sport.

GARy NAKA

When and how did you start playing baseball?

I started playing baseball when I was in kindergarten, and I’ve never stopped. It has kept me motivated and driven to be great at everything I do.

What has been your favorite part about being a baseball player?

I feel like when you’re on a team, you’re a part of a family, and we call each other brothers. The camaraderie on the team is shown on and off the field. I love being able to go to practice every day and seeing the boys and then fighting alongside each other in rivalry games.

Are you pursuing baseball after high school?

I’m on deck. I’m looking forward to playing at the next level because I’ve always wanted to be able to call myself a college baseball player.

Maya Blodgett - Soccer

SOLEIL DAM

How do you feel about your last year as a high school student-athlete?

I’m so excited for this season, and I absolutely can’t wait.

I love my team, and I’m really looking forward to it. I just want to make it the best.

When and how did you start playing soccer?

I’ve been playing soccer ever since I can remember. I started playing because my brother was always playing soccer, and I just grew up playing with him in the front yard.

What has been your favorite part about being a soccer player?

My favorite part about playing soccer is the competitiveness and the ability to build such strong team bonds with your soccer friends. You have such a different bond with your teammates than the ones outside of the soccer field.

Are you pursuing soccer after high school?

I plan to attend Cal Lutheran to play soccer, and I’m verbally committed there right now. I’m so excited because it really is my passion. I play soccer five to six times a week, and I’m excited to continue that process.

GARy NAKA