Being a student athlete involves more than putting on a uniform and competing. It requires commitment, discipline, balance and sacrifice. Many people see the wins and losses but often overlook the work happening behind the scenes, including countless hours of practice, late night studying, and missing social outings.
Marist High School is notorious for its outstanding athletic programs, making it one of the top schools in Illinois for sports. That success does not come without a lot of work.
One of the hardest things to deal with as a student athlete is time management. With rigorous school schedules and training in the morning, after school and on the weekends, it is often hard for students to find time for themselves.
“I try to focus on the sport during practice or games and focus on my homework and studying after,” said senior Abby McClorey, a member of the cross country and lacrosse teams.
Marist placed first in state last year for cheerleading, boys and girls volleyball, and had two individual winners in wrestling. The expectation to win and bring Marist more state championships is greater than ever.
“I feel the pressure of feeling like I need to do my absolute best in every practice, game, meet, and workout is sometimes really challenging mentally,” said junior Rose Cosme, a member of the track, cross country, and basketball teams.
In addition to training, other days must be dedicated to watching film and traveling.
“I stay disciplined and on top of my work by making sure I’m holding myself accountable, planning ahead and staying consistent,” said senior Tessa Dowling, volleyball and lacrosse player.
“During the week cross country is two hours after school and my Saturdays are spent at our meets. Basketball is also two hours after school and practices are six to seven days a week not including games. Sports are a huge time commitment,” said Cosme.
Most Marist sports take up at least 15 hours a week.
The mental toll on athletes is often overlooked, yet many athletes just believe it’s due to physical demand. The constant push to perform, meet expectations and avoid mistakes can weigh heavily on their minds. Stress from competing, fear of injury and the pressure to succeed also can lead to burnout, anxiety, and self doubt. Even the most strong-willed athletes may find themselves struggling mentally to keep pushing.
“It’s the constant stress of stuff outside of sports that affects how you play as well. The school, homework, family issues. It all adds to the stress of how to be a good athlete,” said softball player Jacklyn Pigatto.
While sports can be stressful it can also be rewarding at the same time, building friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.
“Despite the long hours and sacrifices I have made to be as an athlete at Marist, the memories I have created and the friendships I have built have made every moment worth it,” said Cosme.
