Winter sports have begun, and as the weather gets colder the question comes up about how weather is affecting players’ motivation.

As there are not as many sports at NDB taking place in the winter as there are in other seasons, there are fewer opportunities for weather to affect athletes. One major outdoor sport is soccer, and since it is a winter sport, players have to get used to playing in colder weather and maybe even rain starting soon.

These conditions can also raise questions about the intense heat that the spring sports might get, with the weather having quick turnarounds in the upcoming seasons. It may become harder for some athletes who might be just starting the sport to get used to exercising in these climates. With any sport comes perseverance, but it takes a special type of perseverance to stay motivated when there are outside factors making it harder to do something.

“I believe it’s harder to play in warmer climates because you become all sweaty and you just don’t feel your best playing and there is a lot going on,” said club softball player Bella Jweinat. “It has taught me perseverance because when I was younger and first started I was not the best but my coaches and I pushed myself to be the best I can be and I have advanced a lot from that point.”

In many cases, perseverance is something that is gained over time and can also be a challenge to work towards. However, with the right motivation, this can become easier. Despite frustrating circumstances beyond athletes’ control, they are able to continue to play even throughout difficult weather conditions.

Perseverance is extremely important for someone playing any sport and learning to adapt with any change can be a skill very beneficial in sports with difficult climates. This is a trait that will be useful for life beyond high school and can prepare athletes for what is to come.