Sports Return

By: Jordan Johnson '22

In the beginning of March, it was announced that some high school sports would finally be able to return and have a season this school year! As of right now, the only sports returning are softball, boys and girls soccer, cheer, tennis, and possibly boys basketball. If there are any changes as to what teams get to return, then the staff will make sure to keep us updated.

The school has placed many Covid-19 modifications in order to ensure safety of the students and staff. For example, all coaches and athletes must test negative for Covid-19 within 72 hours prior to entering the campus, and a negative test result must be provided weekly. Students must also provide their daily pass in order to enter the campus. Each sport has specific practice dates and times which allows for the students to safely get ready for the next couple of weeks.

Natalia Amaya is a junior at SOCES who happens to be on the softball team! She is an incredible athlete, and she was so sad when her season had been ended by Covid-19 last school year. Since softball is one of the returning sports, she said she feels amazing that she can finally play again.

“I had nothing to do before. I had no motivation to get up or go outside, and being able to play softball changes that for me. I’m on top of my stuff now, and it feels really good to have an opportunity to play,” she said. Natalia claims that she isn’t nervous to play during the pandemic due to the Covid protocols the school has put in place. She said that she feels safe when playing softball because the protocols are very clear.

As of right now, the boys basketball team might have a season or they might not. Apparently, indoor sports have been cleared, but they are still waiting for permission to use the gym. If they don’t get permission to use the gym, then they will not be having a season. Bryce Townsend is also a junior at SOCES, and he is one of the members of the team. He is really hoping that they will be able to play so that the seniors on the team could have their last season.

On the other hand, boys and girls soccer have both started their seasons! Boys soccer had their first game against East Valley, and they won with an incredible score of 10-0. Girls soccer also had their first game against East Valley, and they won with an amazing score of 5-0. Tennis has not received their game schedules yet, but when they do, it should be posted on Schoology. Lastly, softball will be having their first game against Northridge on April 30th. Good luck to all!