Freshmen start high school with major life transitions: New schools, friends, teachers and athletics. The jump from eighth grade sports to freshman tryouts can be exhilarating, challenging and nerve-wracking. Fall athletes start the new school year early, heading to tryouts before the academic year begins.
“I really enjoyed my first tennis season; it’s definitely different since I used to play volleyball. But, it’s so cool that I have the opportunity to try a new sport at Notre Dame,” explained freshman Sydney Burnett. “I think everyone should do the sport that you think you’re gonna have fun with. Try out what you want to do and try your best. It’ll be super fun if you just trust the process.”
Balancing a high school-level schedule along with a brand new sport can be quite challenging. Finding a routine to give time for homework and studying as well as time for practice, games and social opportunities can only lead to unique solutions.
“Managing my time has gone well so far, like balancing my time with [sports] and homework. I just do my work after tennis practice,” said Burnett. “It’s honestly been a huge stress reliever because it distracts me from any academic stress, and I’m able to finish any work I need to do at home.”
NDB offers special academic support for freshmen through classes like Becoming Notre Dame and Freshman Intensive. They are recommended to reach out to teachers, counselors and coaches to communicate any struggles and find their own path of self-management.
Winter and spring sports present their own difficulties, particularly with actual daylight time being much shorter and homework amounts ramping up. Freshman athletes must be able to adapt to the changing weather and academics to excel in both the classroom and the field.
“So far, as a freshman, I love the water polo season because it’s very easy to make more friends, and I love everyone on it,” shared freshman athlete Alessandra Colorado. “I’m looking forward to the [spring swim season] because I’m happy that I get to keep doing the sport I love, with people I love. I definitely recommend freshmen just try out and go for it because it’s a really easy way to make friends and most likely you will make the team and get a lot of friends from it.”
Trying out for sports is positive. They are a great way to meet peers, make connections and even be presented with leadership opportunities, while staying healthy through physical activity.
It is recommended that freshmen try out for a sport. Some are more competitive than others due to higher interest, particularly volleyball and soccer. However, all athletic opportunities are welcoming to any newcomers. Cross country and swim are two beginner-friendly sports for any freshman looking to try something new.
“Last year, I was captain of the wrestling team, and it was so much fun to help out all the incoming freshmen,” shared senior Cat Dorf. “Before every match, I would give speeches and have them pray with me to push them to do their best. I also made sure to check in with them because they’re young and I want to set a good example for them … and teach them from my mistakes. I can’t wait to do the same this season.”
