It’s the season of fall, and for some University Academy athletes, it’s their last time playing football and volleyball as a Gryphon. The seniors were acknowledged for both sports at their Senior Night games recently. For volleyball, senior recognition was on Oct. 14, and football’s senior celebration was on Oct. 18. The cheerleading team’s senior were also recognized on Oct. 18. The cross country and soccer team both do not have any seniors this year.
Senior Night is a game where the seniors bring their family and loved ones who want to congratulate them on their achievements as athletes. A ceremony usually takes place at halftime or after the game, and senior athletes are acknowledged for the years they’ve played, and the schools they plan to attend in the future are announced if they have been chosen.
Most of this year’s seniors have been playing their sport for all four years of high school, and now they will be off to college where they might or might not continue a career in sports.
The football team has multiple seniors, and one is Eric West. He played all four years, which required a lot of determination and motivation.
“What motivated me was the coaches and my teammates. Ever since I was a freshman, coaches and teammates always told me I was a value to this team,” West said.
His coaches have been on his side all along the way, which has played a big role in the journey. West said having role models who were in his shoes at one point and who love the game has been helpful for him and other seniors.
This will also help guide him to a better future in football or another career. He indeed does plan on playing college football.
“It’s definitely going to be harder, but I’m up for the challenge,” West said.
The UA volleyball team also has seniors on its team. They are Zoe Harris-Hall, Zoey Hyche and Alex Gunn. These players have achieved so much through all of their years of playing volleyball.
Gunn said knowing that this is her last year of playing is “a bittersweet feeling since volleyball has always been a big part of my life.” She has played for five years and does see a future with volleyball.
The team as a whole has created a good bond, which is one of the things Gunn loves about being a part of the volleyball team.
For any athlete to make it to their senior year in a sport is a big achievement.
After playing for many years, these athletes are in a position to offer some advice for younger players.
“Don’t take any practice or game for granted. It’ll go by fast. Work hard, keep a positive attitude, and play because you love it,” Gunn said.
Senior Night games are the perfect opportunity to celebrate these students and their achievements as Gryphon athletes. Congratulations to this year’s fall sports seniors!
