CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – With the 2024-2025 High School sports season close to an end (baseball, softball, soccer, among a few others still competing) I thought it necessary to send out an ode to the local high school sports teams and a shout out to those who made the season possible.
As I suffer waiting through the gymnastic and dance practices of my 5- and 8-year-old daughters, at facilities that are a 3-minute drive from my house, I try and remind myself: A. This is a privilege. B. It’s only going to get “worse” and C. There are many that are in the middle of the “worse” right now. The word “worse” may be extreme, but more sacrifices of time and money, along with uncomfortable seating, are sure to come. While they say it will all be “worth it”, it still doesn’t negate the fact that there are indeed sacrifices being made, and it certainly doesn’t mean they are always easy. So, I feel it necessary to give a shout out to all the athletic directors, coaches, student-athletes, officials, and parents that have made such sacrifices and survived the 2024-25 season.
The old fogey in me thinks that surviving a high school sports season isn’t as easy as it used to be for a high school student. The many new distractions and options that modern society offers young people means sports aren’t the only game in town. (Pun intended.) Signing up and seeing a sport season through has become a true testament to a student’s love for the game but also displays an integrity that will be useful in all aspects of their lives. I’d say that in the long run, a student who toughs out a zero-win season gains as much as one that goes on to win the championship. High school sports offer far more than a chance to chase championships or rack up wins. While victories are celebrated and trophies proudly displayed, the true value of athletic programs lies in the personal growth, life lessons, and community bonds they foster.
Cliché? Yes. Cheesy? Probably. True? 100 percent.
To the adults who play a role in all that high school sports has to offer I say, “well done!”. Except those very few who undermine what the spirit of competition and leading by example truly offer. We’ve all seen the videos on social media. Unfortunately, social media does bring to light a miniscule blemish on the wide landscape of high school sports competition and takes attention away from the adults that are doing right by our youth. So, I’d like to highlight what most adults involved in high school sports provide to the community and the students they work and live with.
Athletic directors often work long, unpredictable hours managing schedules, resolving conflicts, securing facilities, and ensuring programs run smoothly. Their role demands constant problem-solving and a deep commitment to the school’s mission—often with little recognition.
Coaches dedicate themselves far beyond practices and games. They invest in the growth of their athletes, spending nights and weekends planning strategies, mentoring students, and sometimes even stepping in as role models when one is needed most. Many coaches do this while juggling full-time teaching or administrative roles.
Student-athletes themselves sacrifice social time, sleep, and personal freedom to train, compete, and represent their schools. Balancing academics and athletics requires discipline and resilience.
Officials also make sacrifices—traveling from game to game, often dealing with intense pressure and criticism, simply to ensure fair play.
And parents give endlessly—driving to early practices, attending games rain or shine, volunteering, fundraising, and supporting their children’s dreams while managing their own responsibilities.
Obviously, it ain’t easy being involved in high school sports, but sacrifices are what you make for something and/or someone you love. That’s what makes it all “worth it”.
Congratulations to all the 2024-25 local high school sport participants and thanks for the sacrifices made. You’ve been a great example for the future students’ athletes, coaches, administrators, officials, and parents.