As with many student athletes, thinking about other things when they are practicing daily, hearing the same critiques, and making mistakes can invite the possibility of distraction.

Some distractions consist of homework one has to do after practice, that cute boy or girl watching, or that kid on the opposite team that has a really impressive throw, sprint, hit, or even cheer.

Trinity Young, a senior volleyball player said “I always catch myself looking over at the other side of the net and watching what they are doing and not being focused on my side of the net.”

As student athletes think about other things, it is hard for them to stay focused on the task at hand. It is also difficult to block out other players and spectators as they cheer or walk in the gym.

Junior, and 3 year dance team member Shania Lies said, “I get really distracted in the mornings during early bird when kids come into the gym.”

It is hard for many to stay concentrated when they hear their name or loud cheers. Especially difficult is handling the successful plays and the imperfect ones; refocusing after making a perfect pass or after missing a throw is challenging for student athletes all-around. 

As Jackson Diercks, a junior football player, focuses on the game he says that “I get really frustrated when I do not do my job correctly. I get really mad and it is hard for me to focus back into the game.”

In order to keep their focus, many students at SHS try to channel their energy on each movement they make. They also try to cancel out all the noise and movement around them and keep their eyes glued to the ball or player they are trying to defend.

Even though trying to let everything in life leave when one steps foot on the field or court is very hard to do, experienced athletes understand that when you put your sport shoes on it means it is time to put your full focus on practice. Putting in the hard work that athletes do everyday, it is understandable that many of the players have a lot of thoughts running through their minds.Through the tears, pain, exhaustion, and stress the athletes at SHS should be commended for their efforts during practices and during sporting events.