The Bittersweet Ending
As the spring sports season begins at Woodbridge High School, senior athletes are stepping onto the field, court, and track for the last time. For most of them, this final season is more than just competition, but it’s memories, growth, and everything they’ve put into their sport over the past four years coming to an end.
“It feels good to know that I made it through four years, and that we are going to try and win it all now,” said Michael Gurovich, captain of the baseball team.
While the happiness of playing a sport remains, others shared a more bittersweet response, noting that their time as Barrons athletes are running low.
“It’s sad knowing that it’s my last season and I’m never going to play with this group again,” said Mady Brenner, captain of the softball team. “But the future is bright.”
When stepping into the halls on the first day of freshman year, it is always said how fast high school will go. For Caroline Trilleras, captain of the track team, she is amazed how true that statement really is.
“It feels really bittersweet,” said Trilleras. “I enjoyed all four years and I am very grateful for all the experiences and memories that came from track.”
Looking back, a lot of athletes said their sport became a big part of their life and identity. For some, that identity might not have been found until later on. Senior Volleyball player, Nathan Cobbah, is one of those athletes, who explained that since he started playing later, he doesn’t take it for granted and wants to give it everything he has for his last season.
Sports and Mental Health
Over time, these athletes didn’t just improve physically, but also mentally. The added benefit of doing a sport shows through each senior athlete that spoke to The Barron Perspective.
“I’ve grown by learning how to handle challenges and control my emotions,” said Brenner.
Whether it was competing in big meets or games, or just spending time together outside of their sport, the little moments are what matters the most. Brenner shared that going to Applebees with her team after a big game was one of her favorite memories, while Trilleras remembered medaling at GMCs her freshman year as a highlight.
As for goals, many seniors are focused on finishing their high school careers strong. Gurovich said his goal is to win the GMC Tournament, make a run in the state tournament, and hit over .300. While the standards are high, others noted that they just want to enjoy their last season and end on a good note.
“I just want to have fun overall and enjoy my final season ,” Trilleras said.
The Future Looks Bright
Even as their high school careers come to an end, some athletes plan to stay involved in their sport. Cobbah said he would love to continue playing volleyball in college, whether it’s on a team or just intramurals. Gurovich is committed to play baseball at Rutgers Newark and Brenner hopes to walk on at the College of Charleston or stay involved as a team manager.
For younger athletes, seniors had simple advice, to stay confident, work hard, and don’t compare yourself to others. Looking back, many of them said they wish they focused more on enjoying the moment.
As their final seasons end within three months, these seniors are making the most of every game, meet, and practice. While their time at WHS is coming to an end, the memories, lessons, and friendships they’ve built will stay with them long after the season is over.
“Just have fun because it goes by really, really fast,” Brenner said.
