Middle school sports are an interesting combination of skill level, maturity and fun.
The Westampton basketball program for both girls and boys is no different. Sports are a great way to feel like you are a part of something important in school. Being able to make new friends with older students as a 6th grader is valuable in boosting confidence and pride in oneself. I love to witness the fist bump or greeting and smile everyday as teammates pass each other in the hall on their way to class sharing in a special bond which is being a member of a team. I watch as the girls team stomps their feet to help the boys opponent miss a foul shot or how the boys team cheers loudly when the girls are on the court. I have also witnessed how team members will try and get the ball to a new player giving them the opportunity to try and score instead of just scoring themselves. It is a great display of teamwork and caring about one another way beyond what the scoreboard may say.
Every year new students will show up to try out for their chance to prove themselves worthy of gaining a spot on the team but unknowingly will find that being on the team is more than just wins and losses. As the final home game approaches, I wish to thank the 8th grade team members for leading by example and teaching the underclass students how to always find their best.