That feeling of a coach calling a play from the sideline, or a crowd in anticipation of cheering when the team wins, or that post-game locker room celebration is what sports are about at Eagle High. Leading these defining moments are the captains of each team.
“Being captain means leading with strength and accountability. You set the example and hold yourself to the highest standard,” senior Ella Elordi said.
The responsibly of a captain is huge. Captains help run practices, represent the team even when off the field, and they act as a bridge between the parents, the coaches and the players.
When off the field, there is a certain pressure to maintain good grades. Students without bad grades aren’t allowed to participate. Along with that, there is constant pressure from coaches and peers to perform the best.
The captains’ impact doesn’t end with the season. The underclassmen they have mentored will carry the legacy on, ensuring the school pride culture at Eagle High to continue.
“I want my team to remember my love for the sport and how hard I worked,” said senior rugby captain Anna Petzinger, “I want them to know this team should not be taken for granted, and enjoy every second.”
This year, the team captains for men’s rugby were seniors Jaxson Lebeau, Anthony Butler and Kade Mcewen.
“The most memorable time as captain was probably our Utah and Florida trips,” said Butler.
The girls’ softball captains are all of the seniors on the team.
“It’s nice being able to help younger girls, especially with things I know I struggled with when I was their age,” said senior Alyssa Orchard, “I can help and motivate them.”
The track captains are seniors Ozzie Faulk, Aliceann Hillishiem, Max Taggart and Andie and Josephine Roy.
The girls basketball team captains led the girls to victory winning the State title. They beat Middleton High when previously in the season they lost to them.
That’s the importance of good captains. Seniors Bella Thompson and Trinity Holsinger had an impact on the girls, and they were able to go all the way to the championship where the trophy became theirs.
At Eagle High School, winning and losing may end or continue a single season, but leadership is what shapes the team, it’s what shapes the culture.
