Adelphi University’s Quill Awards 2021 Honorable Mention for Best Sports Story or Column
By TYLER SIEGMANN and LILY WACHTEL
The Nassau County Section VIII Superintendents Board added to an already unusual start to the 2020 school year by postponing all fall sports until the beginning of 2021 due to COVID-19 safety concerns.
Many student-athletes of Jericho High School were heartbroken upon the release of this news. Junior girls volleyball player Mary Kate P. said, “I was bummed out when I heard fall sports were delayed because I was looking forward to making friends during pre-season. That being said, I think that the delay in sports is better than not having them at all.”
Similarly, junior boys volleyball player Dylan P. said, “I was really upset when I heard about the delay. Hopefully everything can return back to normal soon so that sports can start.”
This year’s boys varsity soccer team will not enjoy games under the lights as did last year’s team. Senior forward Jack N. said, “The delay in sports has made an already strange senior year seem even more abnormal. Unfortunately there is nothing we can do about it except try to make the most of what we still have left.”
The absence of sports has also led to a lack of excitement throughout the school environment. Junior girls varsity Jayettes dancer Sydney S. said, “I think the delay of sports is just upsetting to everyone in general because it takes away from the school spirit, and people at Jericho are very involved in sports.”
Just like their players, coaches are devastated as well. Girls varsity volleyball coach Ms. D’Antonio said, “I am very, very upset that the season isn’t running. I understand it is for the safety of the students, but they need the social-emotional benefits that come from sports.”
In the same way, boys junior varsity football coach Mr. Berry said, “I was definitely upset and bummed, but at the same time I understand why the decision was made. The safety of the coaches, players, and everyone else involved is the most important thing.”
A majority of student-athletes are hoping that they can at least have the opportunity to play their sport in 2021 through a modified season. Jericho’s Athletic Director Mr. Mankowich said, “This condensed plan means the winter season would start January 4th, the fall season would start early March, and the spring season would start late April or early May.” Depending on infection rates, Mr. Mankowich is hopeful that “if the numbers are good, we can get moving forward.”
With this in mind, student athletes feel a little bit better knowing they can eventually play their fall sport. Senior boys varsity soccer player Jack N. said, “It’s unfortunate that our season will be cut short and pushed back to March. However, I am grateful that I still have the opportunity to play a final season with all of my teammates.”
Similarly, senior girls varsity soccer player Brooke M. said, “It’s definitely going to be different, but I feel that the work and effort put into everything will still hold the same energy as it would’ve during the fall.”
Last year’s senior girls varsity soccer team enjoyed celebrating their wins. This year’s team remains hopeful. Senior goalie Alexa G., back row third from left, said, “Although it is very sad that my final season got cut short and postponed, I am so glad we are receiving the chance to still play. ”
Although student-athletes at Jericho High School are upset due to the current circumstances, they are looking forward to 2021 to compete in their fall season in the safest way possible.