Kamara White
Finally, after almost two years, MC sports are back in session. Athletes can compete and most do not have to wear masks during play. Students, faculty, staff, parents, and spectators are able to watch athletes play once again, and MC students are ready to show off their Sundevil spirit against their opponents.
Senior and utility player (running back, safety, and wide receiver) for the Varsity football team, Hunter Ledesma is stoked to be back on the field competing this year.
“[Covid restrictions] affected us last season because we didn’t have the full schedule and there were no playoffs and no championship game,” Ledesma said. “So it kind of made it to where we had nothing really to work towards, and there was no real set goal.”
This season, now with fewer Covid restrictions, the football team has been able to make some big accomplishments. The MC Varsity football team is full of talent, some of which have been recognized by renowned universities. has some college recruits and commits, and won Valley League Champions.
“Jayden Virgin is committed to Boise State University. Luke Sevier, Caden Gent, and Trevor Bananal, including myself, have all received offers to Lyon College,” Ledesma said with much confidence and ownership.
The MC Red Sea’s energy has been crucial to the success of the football team, especially in their most recent win over Westview. Ledesma gave MC students the inside scoop on how they can support the football team and keep the energy levels. Just like the MCHS Varsity football team, where girls volleyball also won Valley League Champions.
“Going out to the games, you don’t have to go to every away game but definitely be at the home games. Just be loud,” Ledesma said.
Team captain and senior on the Girl’s Varsity Volleyball team, Delilah Menck is proud of how far the program has come as a whole.
“This has definitely been my best season so far and we have had the most success this year than the past three years combined,” Menck said. “This season we have had the most success, the most fun, and the whole program really does gel together nicely.”
Just like the MC Varsity Football team, girls volleyball also became Valley League Champions.
“We are the Valley league champions and I am so proud of how far we have come as a program since Covid happened,” Menck said.
Kate Heald, a left defender on the Varsity field hockey team has also seen the program bounce back from Covid.
“Last year our numbers were smaller because of Covid. But this year, more people have returned,” Heald said. “The most important thing we have learned as a program and as individuals in communication with each other, especially this year.”
“We are 9-2 in league so far and have a really good chance of being league champs. I hope we are able to accomplish what some of our other fall sports have been able to do this season. [Volleyball, water polo, tennis, and football all have taken first in their leagues],” Heald said.
All fall sports this year have benefitted from the new “Sports Supporting Sports” program. Math teacher, Mr. Andrade has been able to see this program in full swing.
“Being able to see kids that you develop relationships with [in the classroom] it’s great to get to see them just enjoying themselves and being a kid and having fun,” Andrade said. “Sometimes you have a kid who’s not necessarily the most successful in school, academically, but out in the field crushes it. So you have to see them be successful in something that they take pride in and are happy about.”
Overall, the Sundevil athletes have been taking advantage of the competitive freedom that has been presented to them and taking charge once game time starts.
