CHEER FOR THE FUTURE OF WHS BASKETBALL

By TAYLOR FAGAN

TAYLOR FAGAN FOR WIZARD WEEKLY

Every week, Washingtonville students show their Wizard Pride by making their way to varsity sporting events.  Students come out to every varsity basketball game to support their favorite athletes, but the freshman athletes do not get the same love.   Many students may not be aware that there is a freshman basketball team, which results in a lack of attendance and support at their games.

Wizard Nation is known for supporting each and every team, club, etc.  The freshman basketball team is the future of Washingtonville basketball.  With that being said, it is important that they get the same respect and support as any other junior varsity and varsity team.  Each and every player, no matter the level, puts in the same amount of  hard work and dedication.  Freshman, Gianni Williams stated,  “I think we should definitely be recognized as much as the junior varsity and varsity teams because we work just as hard as them.” 

Moving up to a varsity sport from the freshman team can be intimidating.  Senior, Andrew Fitzpatrick, knows exactly how it feels to move up in the ranks from the freshman team to varsity.  He expressed, “Starting out on the freshman team, you don’t really experience the rush of having the student section there cheering you on.  It’s a great feeling to finally move up to varsity and have your fellow classmates there to support you.” 

The student section has a tremendous impact on the players during a game.  Williams voiced, “I think having a bigger crowd at games would benefit the team more, especially during close games because it helps when the crowd is there to support you.”  Having the school behind the team encouraging the athletes can be an important factor in the game’s outcome.  Fitzpatrick agreed that, “having your friends and family there to support you is a confidence booster.”

The freshman basketball team is moving on to great things this season.  With an 8-4 record so far, they are challenging many different teams at different skill levels.  With the support of the school behind them, they will continue to be successful.  Their next home game is today, February 2nd, at 4:30 pm.  Be sure to come out and support the freshmen boys!