Junior varsity (JV) sports have long been a cornerstone of athletic programs, providing a vital platform for underclassmen to grow both as athletes and individuals. This level of competition serves not only to hone skills but also to establish camaraderie among teammates. In this piece, we delve into the perspectives of coaches and players at Forest Hills Central (FHC) regarding the role of JV sports in the broader athletic landscape.

The Coaching Perspective: Building a Strong Foundation

Anthony Sultini, the head coach of the JV and freshman football teams, brings a wealth of experience to FHC, having previously coached for eleven years at Forest Hills Northern. Over the past five years, he has immersed himself in the FHC football program, emphasizing the importance of a unified playing philosophy across all levels. Sultini believes consistency in training and tactics lays the groundwork for success as athletes progress to varsity competition.

“Our entire football program, from the 7th and 8th graders up, learns the same plays and strategies,” Sultini explained. “When everyone is on the same page, it fosters a strong, cohesive environment that benefits the entire team.”

Preparing for the Next Level

The primary objective of a JV program is to equip players with the skills and knowledge needed for varsity competition. By the time athletes transition to the varsity level, they often carry with them three to four years of experience in the team’s offensive and defensive strategies.

Promoting Talent: When to Move Up

A common practice among coaches is to elevate talented JV players to the varsity squad when appropriate. Jonas VanderWoude, a junior basketball player with a strong starting record, believes this should be a selective process. He emphasizes that moving players up should only happen if they are likely to see significant playing time.

• “If they aren’t going to play for more than half the game, it doesn’t make sense to pull them up,” VanderWoude stated. “They need that game experience to develop.”

Conversely, senior Crandall Quinn offers a slightly different viewpoint. He suggests that moving players up can be beneficial if it enhances their skills and contributes positively to the team’s performance.

• “If a player can help the team and improve their own abilities, then it’s a good move,” Quinn noted. “It provides them with valuable experience that they might not get on the JV team.”

The Unique Benefits of Junior Varsity Sports

While JV sports may not carry the same level of intensity as varsity competitions, they offer their own set of advantages. For many athletes, JV serves as an entry point to sports, allowing them to engage in physical activity without the pressure often associated with higher-level competition.

Sultini articulates a clear vision for the JV program, which he sees as essential for nurturing future varsity talent. “Our goal is to prepare these young athletes for the next level, helping our program achieve success,” he said. “The foundation laid at the JV level is crucial.”

Diverse Perspectives on Participation

Ultimately, the significance of junior varsity sports varies among individuals. Some, like VanderWoude, view it as a chance for students to enjoy the sport in a less competitive atmosphere, while others, like Coach Sultini, regard it as an essential training ground for the next wave of varsity athletes.

As students at FHC navigate their choices in sports, they must consider what role these activities play in their lives. Are they simply a fun pastime, or are they a stepping stone to greater athletic achievements?