Student Spotlight: Freshmen on Varsity Sports

Gilman is full of athleticism, and our community highly values athletic success. One of the most prestigious athletic accomplishments is the blanket award given to those who played on varsity for all four years of their high school career. Few athletes make varsity as freshmen, making this coveted award all the more rare. 

Twenty-three students from the Class of 2027 made varsity (excluding the 40 freshmen in track programs.) So what is the experience like playing sports at a high level and with older teammates? 

Most athletes reported that the varsity team is more or equally competitive to their club team. Daniel Shou ‘27 said his tennis club was equally competitive to Gilman’s team, but mentioned, “It differs from [my] club in the fact that the [Gilman] team is close and we always practice and play with each other.” Treve Darby ‘27, who plays water polo for the Navy Academy Aquatic Club, said that his club team was slightly more intense for him, but this could be because of the impact of having 12 seniors on Gilman’s team this past year. 

For Liam McGettigan ‘27, a freshman on the varsity wrestling team, his favorite part of the team was hanging out with his teammates at tournaments, and wrestling opponents that challenged his ability. Liam recently went to the National Prep wrestling tournament with eight other wrestlers, placing third; later, Liam was named All-MIAA for wrestling and won Gilman’s Edward T. Russell Wrestling Trophy. Treve and Grayson Jones ‘27, a lacrosse player, echoed Liam’s sentiment, describing the environment as a brotherhood where everyone was valued and welcomed. 

Still, the familial environment does not mean playing doesn’t come with some hardships and sacrifices. All interviewees mentioned that athletics affected their lives the most through time commitment. Treve says, “I think when you play a sport at a very high and competitive level at a rigorous school like Gilman it makes you become extremely disciplined.” This time commitment requires more efficient working time on homework and less free time. Squash player Jack Paternotte ‘27 commented, “Not being able to hang out with friends or family and giving up other sports and hobbies is very difficult to do, but all of the work pays off.” Everyone also said that the time made it harder to maintain a work-life balance. 

Furthermore, Grayson discussed the possible pressure young athletes can face on varsity teams. Most freshmen felt as though there was high pressure during tryouts that faded as the season progressed. Though it was difficult to begin, he reflected, “The [lacrosse] team has established a culture where it’s alright to mess up.” 

Finally, the interviewees spoke about how other sports translated to their sport or if they found any similarities between athletics. Noah Sinada ‘27 said that track translated to the soccer field, as the conditioning and strength gain involved with running improved strength and endurance as a goalkeeper. Those who participated in wrestling (namely Grayson and Liam) said that the conditioning involved in wrestling is unlike any other sport, but it still prepares athletes for any other sport.

Overall, the Class of ‘27 paints a very promising picture for the future of Gilman athletics. Participation and success on the field, court, mat, pool, track, etc., is a huge part of the Gilman culture. In a few years, these freshmen will be iconic names in athletic competitions, the MIAA, and beyond.