Student athletics: Challenges of COVID

Since sports activities were abruptly canceled last winter, Yakima Valley College’s student-athletes and coaches have been forced to contend with uncertainty. Without knowing when competition or even practices might resume, the Yaks sports teams have worked to maintain their conditioning while coping with the mental and emotional challenges brought on by the pandemic. Below, athletes and coaches share their experiences during this unprecedented time.

"Being a student athlete during these trying times has taught me the importance of having faith and trust in my teammates and coaching staff. I cannot control what is happening in the world or with sports, but I can control my reactions and level of motivation. I am lucky to have supportive coaches who encourage me to take advantage of this time to work on academics and individual practices." - Lochlyn Hoberg, Volleyball

Maggie Hutton

“We have a workout program we’ve been following from home and that’s been really helpful in keeping us in shape and motivated. Getting together as a team via Zoom to talk about what’s going on in our lives — what we’re struggling with and the positive things — that’s really helpful to support each other.” - Maggie Hutto, Volleyball

"It can be hard to stay active when all your classes are online, but we have workouts from our coach and my teammates and I also talk about other ways to stay active, like going on a hike. We do our best to keep each other uplifted — and honestly it’s hard at times — but I’m grateful to have a really great team and coaches to help me stay positive.” - Sage McDaniel, Volleyball

Alexis Lokeni, Softball

“Something that’s definitely helping me, and I’m sure many of my teammates, with morale is the constant communication with each other, but also with Coach Bodeen. He’s done his absolute best to communicate what he can about our upcoming season and also just inspirational messages each week to keep us motivated.” - Alexis Lokeni, Softball

Callie Delp, Women’s Basketball

“During quarantine it’s been pretty difficult to workout. I have been doing basketball workouts on outdoor courts and hoops. It's a weird time because we don’t even know if we’re going to play, but it’s pretty motivating to know that they could find a vaccine and we could start practice tomorrow, so I need to make sure I’ll be ready to play at any time.” - Callie Delp, Women’s Basketball

“I’m encouraging my players to have an attitude of gratitude. If we don’t have hard times we can’t get stronger, and as difcult as things are right now, I try to remind my players they still have so much to give. They have kindness to give. They can make a positive impact on the people in their lives.” - Chuck Bodeen, Head Softball Coach

“Our athletes’ mental health is of huge importance to us. The NWAC conference has virtual freside chats led by a doctor where all student athletes can discuss complex topics anonymously with the doctor and other athletes. Our team has regular Zoom meetings and we message/email each other all the time. It has really helped our team stay together and get the support they need in athletics and beyond.” - Darci Dekker, Head Volleyball Coach

“Throughout the pandemic we’ve remained in contact via Zoom and group chat. The Lady Yaks were presented with an 8-week workout program during the summer and another 4-week plan for the fall. Now we’re patiently waiting for a safe return to the court.” - Adam Strom, Head Women’s Basketball Coach