By Scotty Ruth

Friday night. 7 o’clock. Under the lights. Collegiate varsity football’s first game in two years is about to be played. Feeling like the whole school is there, our student section looks to be more than three times as large as the home team’s, Goochland High School. The stands are roaring. Even with admission being $7, the drive to Goochland High School being over 30 minutes from Collegiate, and the game being the Friday before Labor Day weekend, students were still eager to come out and cheer after the drought of football. Varsity football took home its first win of the season on Friday, Sept. 3, beating Goochland 21-0, confirming that fall sports are back in full swing. 

Football’s first game student section at Goochland High. Photo credit: Sarah Kennon.

After most Collegiate sports did not have a season with games last fall, players can not wait to get back to competing. With all but volleyball being played outside, football, field hockey, soccer, and tennis aren’t required to wear masks while practicing or competing. According to Eliza Stone (‘22), captain of the varsity volleyball team, “we have to wear masks during practice, which can make it hard to communicate, and you get tired,” but other than wearing masks at practice they have no other restrictions. All athletes must wear masks in the weight room, buses, and locker rooms but not while competing in games.

It is noticeable, however, that players would much rather have a season and follow the few COVID-19 guidelines in place, than not have a season at all. There is much excitement this fall due to games that were unable to be played last year. Kate Riopelle (‘22), a senior on the varsity field hockey team, pointed out that the “team dynamic is super positive, and we all feel lucky to be at practice, even on the hard days.” Expressing her appreciation, Riopelle commented how she has “been super thankful about having this season.” Players realize how lucky they are to play sports and to not take them for granted. Even this year, COVID-19 restrictions could be brought back at any time, so athletes are appreciating every moment they have.

Celebrating a win against STAB. Photo courtesy of Collegiate School.

All sports teams have had a great start to their seasons. Varsity football, after winning their first game against Goochland, had a tough loss against Trinity the following week, but quickly bounced back against St Anne’s-Belfield (STAB) with a 35-7 victory on Friday, Sept. 17. Building more momentum, the team traveled to Flint Hill Saturday, Sept. 25 and came home victorious, 41-18. With a 3-1 record, the Cougars have a tough matchup coming up against Episcopal High School Friday, Oct. 1, at home. 

The varsity soccer team is starting the season off hot, going 8-0 and allowing a total of four goals in their eight games. They look to continue their winning streak as they play North Cross School, away at Hampden-Sydney College on Friday, Oct. 1. Varsity soccer is playing at a high level this season, and you will not want to miss the chance to see them play.

Varsity tennis is also coming out strong as they start 7-2, with the chance to go 8-2 as they face off against Flint Hill next. While last year only the starters were allowed to attend tennis matches, tennis player Skylar Mullins (‘22) explains that “all our players can be at the match, as well as fans, so it feels a lot more like a team environment.” With fans and teammates being able to attend matches now, the tennis team will have the support needed to have a successful season. 

Varsity volleyball is currently 4-2, with an upcoming game against Saint Gertrude High School. Stone has high expectations for the team, with goals to “have a winning season and to make it to the LIS finals.” Knowing these goals, volleyball is a must-watch team now, and especially when the playoffs come around.

Field hockey game at Robins Campus. Photo credit: Sarah Kennon.

Finally, varsity field hockey has started the season 6-2, after a heartbreaking loss in overtime to Saint Catherine’s. However, this team will not let that loss effect the rest of their season. Riopelle commented on their chemistry as a team, saying, “I love how connected our team is, and how hard everyone is working.” The field hockey team has a strong bond and work ethic, which will be vital to the team’s success. 

The one thing that each and every team can agree on is that having fans back will increase excitement for the fall season. There is nothing worse than an empty set of bleachers with no cheering or enthusiasm. Mullins said it best: “It’s so much more fun when you have your friends and teammates cheering you on.” Fall teams are looking forward to successful seasons with filled student sections, cheering fans, and competitive games.