SPRING SPORTS

Spring sports teams at area high schools began practice on Monday, March 3, under fine weather conditions.
However, since that time there has been a lot of cold, wind and rainy days.
That is what makes spring sports so difficult. The weather is so unpredictable for all sports that are played outdoors: boys tennis, boys and girls track & field, girls softball, baseball and boys and girls lacrosse.
There is only so much work that can be accomplished indoors. Teams must prepare themselves for outdoor game conditions. Offseason work helps in this situation, but there are also many student-athletes who play multiple sports and must adjust to the different skills that are necessary in different sports.
Even when it is not raining, playing field conditions must be considered as well as court surfaces for tennis. Track surfaces can also be a problem although most schools now have all-weather tracks to help deal with the elements.
There is limited practice time to get ready for scrimmages and non-league games, if they are able to be fit in with the weather, before the start of league games in the third week of drills and workouts.
Spring sports must also deal with other intangibles, like upcoming graduation for seniors who are also winding up their college plans and other plans for next year; the annual prom, class trips and other school trips, spring plays and musicals.
With all of this going on as obstacles, the achievements of these spring coaches and student-athletes are that much more significant, especially for the squads and individuals who are able to achieve success.

Posted by
Barry Sankey