Seckman fall sports

By: Janese Watson

            Not enough people know about every fall sport at Seckman, so The Prowl interviewed coaches to see what kind of new information they could share with the public. Some of the answers you wouldn’t expect and some are probably what you would have imagined.

            For instance, did you know that the Seckman boys’ soccer team has scored 20 goals this year thus far? They practice everyday on the main field and are working to perfect their quick passing and drills. Soccer is a sport where you have to be consistently organized, but without breaks to reset. A compliment that is most often said to the boys is that they never quit and always feel they are in the game. That is a wonderful quality to have. Coach Bookstaver was asked what he would do if soccer was taken away from Seckman and his reply was: “It would be extremely disappointing to take the opportunity to play and develop away from students who hope to play beyond high school.” He couldn’t have said it any better. Good luck to the boys in the Suburban West Conference, as that is their toughest competition. Seckman soccer is amazing and only getting better.

            A lot was found out about the girls’ golf team. Did you know our Seckman gold team has beaten Fox seven years straight? These ladies practice four days a week at Pomme Creek Golf Course or sometimes even the driving range. Their way of working out is walking the entire golf course, which could get lengthy. “Our golf team has been told they are the friendliest to play,” says Coach Kennedy.  Seckman golf has also said they admire every sport at Seckman. The girls’ golf team is a true success story here at Seckman High School.

            A sport at Seckman that is not talked about as much as it should be is girls’ volleyball. Coaches Artinger, Eplin and Ehlmann helped fill in blank pages. Artinger informs us that the most challenging thing for a volleyball team is playing together as a team. It is 100% a team sport. Most would agree with Artinger because that is usually the best way to win. Seckman volleyball practices are everyday from 2:50-5pm at the high school and focuses on their weaknesses from previous matches. Artinger was asked about hardworking players and she said, “We have many players that work hard, but I would have to say Hannah Arras and Leah Blocker are some of our top girls who put their heart and soul into each practice and game. They always give 100% every time they play and are great leaders on the court.” Seckman volleyball’s toughest opponent is Lafayette High School. However, as long as the team works together and gives it their all, they could win state this year. Good luck girls!

            Cheer has always been a hard sport. Seckman varsity cheer is something everyone likes. They are always giving spirit and cheering on our football team. At their last camp, the ladies took home first place and, on top of that, the leadership award! “The girls never fail to have a great time together,” says Coach Wingo. People often complement this team’s skills and how the girls are always nice. Some people call cheer easy, but, as Coach Wingo would say, “You lift weights, but they lift people.” Seckman Cheer makes us proud.

            The final fall sport at Seckman that was interviewed was the Seckman varsity dance team, also known as JagSwag. Ms. Como shares the amazing opportunity to teach this group of girls with Kelly Stevens. JagSwag was brought to life three years ago when Kelly was first hired. Ever since then, magical things have happened. In 2012, JagSwag went to nationals for the first time ever and brought home a second place trophy. In 2013, the ladies earned fourth and, in 2014, JagSwag again came home with a second place trophy, losing first by less than a point. As far as this year, Coach Kelly said, “We have had this dream for three years, but this year will be it. This year JagSwag will get those Jackets.” This is a group of girls that never give up no matter how hard things get. There is constant improvement in the girls and endless friendships. The best thing about JagSwag is not only are they nationally ranked, but they also get along with everyone. They practice every day after school for two hours in the Café to perfect their dances. Good luck to all the girls at nationals this year.