Whether it’s Friday night football games, Saturdays on Kosh, or competitions in the pool, Westminster athletics runs like a well-oiled machine. But how does this happen? Although the focus may be on the athletes, they’ll be first to admit they don’t do it alone. For every Westminster game, match, meet, and competition, we must also thank some of the people behind the scenes: team managers, grounds crew, parent volunteers, and coaches.
The grounds crew works relentlessly at all hours. To prevent athletes from injuries and ensure they have the best possible playing experience, the crew dedicates their time to mowing fields, aerating turf, and painting lines.
“The maintenance team gives us every opportunity to practice, even when there is bad weather,” said varsity football player senior Coleman Fleming. “For example, last year when there was a hurricane, they allowed us to play a home game within two weeks.”
The maintenance team are not the only ones improving the athletic experience.
Parent volunteers provide communication, support, and fundraising for teams, with most of their work being overlooked. Without parent volunteers, Westminster wouldn’t have the beloved concession stands every student looks forward to at halftime. Most students admit that whenever they go up to the concession stand during a game, no matter how chaotic, the parents always have a smile on their faces.
Another part of the athletic department that shows up day after day is the coaching staff. A team doesn’t exist without its coaching staff, many of whom spend countless hours in and out of games planning practices, schedules, and much more.
Coaches show up to every practice and game showing consistent support and encouragement to their student-athletes. Early morning practices, late-night games, you name it— coaches are motivating and helping their athletes improve every step of the way.
In addition to coaches, the athletic staff, including directors, equipment operations, strength and conditioning, and sports medicine, ensure that all athletes can safely compete at the highest level. Whether it’s early morning lifts or late night basketball games, athletes are able to stay organized and prepared through the staff’s dedication and sharp attention to detail. These adults also serve as many athletes’ support systems, both physically and mentally.
Team managers also carry large roles of responsibility for their teams. Some crucial aspects that most fans may not see include keeping track of scores, times, and stats in sports like track and field, cross country, diving, wrestling, and more.
“When doing the math [for scoring divers], if you mess up one thing, it can mess up the whole diver scoresheet,” said diving manager sophomore Rikki Joelle Scarborough.
Team managers allow coaches and athletes to focus solely on their jobs by providing assistance along the way.
“Our role makes meet days smoother. It allows [the wrestlers] to only focus on the meet,” said wrestling manager sophomore Sarina Dhingra.
Although managers provide vital logistical support, they are also all classmates with these athletes; therefore, they are able to provide unique mental support and connection.
“Managers also serve as a support system, working behind the scenes to make sure athletes are okay,” said cross country manager sophomore Samar Pannu.
Without all Westminster’s athletic hidden heroes, the athletic department would not be where it is today, with more than 322 state championships and 1,000 athletes participating in sports each year.
Edited by Izzy Winarsky
