Upper School Athletes Get a Jump on Fall Sports
During the weeks before school started, nearly 170 Upper Schoolers had the campus—and the dorms—to themselves as they settled in for a demanding but enjoyable session of pre-season training for fall sports. This period of preparation is mandated by the Missouri State High Schools Activities Association (MSHSAA) for all high schoolers who wish to compete in interscholastic and league sports.
For the School's Athletic Department, this period is an opportunity for much more than physical and skills training. Spiritual and mental preparation are emphasized by all the coaches. Each team took time to delve into the Bible and the writings of Mary Baker Eddy and to share ideas and inspiration. Early-to-bed and early-to-rise was definitely the order of the day, with some teams setting off on drills and practice runs by 6 a.m. to beat the heat before returning for breakfast and “quiet time.”
The girls participated in softball, cross country, tennis, or volleyball, while the boys trained in football, soccer, or cross country. And by now, barely two weeks into the term, most teams have already participated in several games at the varsity and junior varsity levels.
All the teams have welcomed newcomers—both freshmen and students in higher grades, seasoned players and first-timers. Patient coaching and encouragement by the adults and senior team members have helped the new players find their feet quickly.
In just the first two weeks of competition, several wins have been racked up by varsity softball, soccer, and tennis, and varsity and junior varsity volleyball, while our football players have put on a strong showing. Cross country had its first race of the season this week.
A significant change has taken place in the football program with the move to an independent league. Another big change will be realized later this month when the donor-funded re-turfing of McCandless Field is completed.