Six Hope College student-athletes share what they have been focusing on during a spring season changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They talk about how they have tried to display leadership and show gratitude during trying times.
In Part 1, they answered the following question regarding leadership: “How have you helped lead your team this school year amid the pandemic that has required so many changes to the way you do things?”
Hayley Scollard, Women’s Outdoor Track and Field
“I think I helped the team just by showing up and allowing track to be a space for whatever people need. Some days just showing up to practice felt difficult since we did not have competitions for a long period of time. For a while, the team morale felt pretty low. But I knew if I gave up on giving my full effort, even with the little things and not putting my best self forward at practice, I was doing a disservice to my team. I tried to be positive but realistic as a captain, and tried to frequently check-in on teammates. My concern was more about everyone’s mental wellbeing. I hoped practice was a positive part of everyone’s day and made them closer to realizing their potential as an athlete. I tried my best to have a positive attitude since there is little we have control over, but I felt grateful to be able to run everyday that we could.”
Evan Becker, Baseball
“For me, I think trying to lead this year has been a great experience and although it has been difficult. I think it has been easier to relate to every guy on the team because we are all going through the same thing. As a leader, I think it has been important to express being smart on and off the field in hopes of keeping COVID away from our program to the best of our ability. I’ve also tried to listen to any concerns that my teammates have had because just being there for a teammate to let out frustration or confusion can help.”
Jo Cook, Softball
“I feel I bring a positive attitude every single day I get a chance to play my sport and be with my team. I want to bring a smile to others in a time when that can be difficult for some. As a leader and a senior, it can be tiresome continually hearing changes and new restrictions, but my main goal this year is to not let that affect the time that I have with my team.”
Paige Rosenbrook, Women’s Lacrosse
“This year, I have put focus on being positive and having fun. Through everything that has happened, I think it’s important to look for the bright side and enjoy each moment we have.”
Luke Elder, Men’s Lacrosse
“We’ve worked hard to control the controllable. I’ve tried to focus our attention on practicing with intensity every day, doing the little things right and being there for each other. Our team has adopted the mantra that practice is our “recess” for the day — our time to enjoy the sport we love and forget about everything else.”
Bailey Chorney, Women’s Tennis
“As our captain this year, one of my biggest focuses was trying to find ways for our team to still connect amidst the pandemic. Especially with last year’s season being cut short as well, this season in a way feels like the first real season for both freshmen and sophomores. Because of this, I have worked really hard and collaborated with others to think of some new ways to connect with teammates. These are things such as team hikes — but distanced with masks — team dinners—but distanced with masks ‚ and team bible study — but distanced with masks, and other things along similar lines. Amidst all of this chaos, I think our team can agree that we can still be each other’s source of comfort and family on campus.”
