Preseason Training Kicks Off Successful Start to Season
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A sizzling end to summer did not deter Upper School student-athletes from giving their all during a vigorous preseason training week, generally known as “Sports Camp.” Each year, fall teams, including volleyball, cross country, soccer, football, dance, cheer, and drumline, come back to campus before classes start to gear up for the upcoming athletic season. After a year off due to the pandemic, students and coaches alike were excited to return for preseason training week.
“This season is an exciting one as last year’s fall sports season had restrictions due to COVID-19,” says School Athletics Director Shawn Brown. “The kids are working hard, creating friendships, learning how to be teammates, and digging into what it means to commit and compete. Having a strong work ethic, being persistent, and expressing commitment are essential life skills, and it’s always fun to see sports provide the framework to develop them.”
Sports camp sets the stage for a strong season, not only helping student-athletes improve their skills and prepare to compete effectively, but bolstering their confidence, setting expectations, and creating strong bonds between teammates.
For some students, the preseason week offers an opportunity to try something completely new—to sample a sport that seems interesting but hasn’t always been an option or seems intimidating to tackle as a rookie. For sophomore Jaheim Magaki joining the football team seemed daunting at first, but he was determined to give it a shot.
“I enjoy other sports, but I really wanted to master something new and step outside of my comfort zone,” Jaheim says. “Since joining the football team, I’ve experienced tremendous support and encouragement from my teammates. Because of that, I find myself wanting to do more . . . and give more of myself.”
As contractors near the highly anticipated spring completion of the Bill Simon Field House and state-of-the-art multipurpose fields, it is an exciting time for Principia athletics. The new facilities provide increased opportunities to strengthen the athletics experience of Principia students, engage with the local community, and recruit new students.
Equity between boys’ and girls’ athletics programs is also a priority, and Principia is grateful that these new facilities provide equal access to top-notch athletic spaces. At the same time, fresh partnerships are emerging. For example, the new water-turf field that opened in late July is being enjoyed by the girls from both Principia and neighboring Whitfield School.
Principia sports camps continue to be a proving ground that helps launch students into a successful school year filled with rigor, challenge, fulfillment, and triumph.