When it comes to Junior Varsity (JV) sports, opinions can vary widely. Some see them as merely a stepping stone towards varsity athletics, while others appreciate the unique benefits they offer. Athletes at the Upper School (US) are increasingly reflecting on their experiences, revealing a blend of motivations and expectations surrounding these teams.
The Dual Purpose of JV Participation
For many students, like Emma Kirk, a member of the Girls’ JV Hockey team, participation is driven by both personal enjoyment and the necessity of fulfilling athletic requirements. Emma shares, “I do JV hockey to get my sports credit. It’s a nice way to enjoy a sport without the stress. I can still be involved even if I’m not the best player.”
Emma balances her JV commitments with a more demanding competitive crew team, which requires a significant time investment. She appreciates the flexibility of the JV hockey team, stating, “It’s a pain sometimes with having to do two sports. I really like the JV hockey team because there are no expectations, and attendance is flexible.”
The Role of Coaches and Team Dynamics
The atmosphere of a JV team can largely depend on the coach and the team’s culture. Lexi Nicholas, who has played for both Girls’ JV Hockey and Lacrosse, notes the contrasting experiences. “One team was very laid-back and fun, while the other operated more like a varsity squad with set goals and schedules. A big factor is the coach’s approach.”
Students with aspirations for varsity sports tend to take JV competition more seriously. Lexi adds, “JV sports are respected, especially by those aiming for varsity.” However, this sentiment is not universal, as Iris Fahy highlights the inconsistency in team attendance and commitment. “I feel like the only thing holding JV teams back is the numbers. Many practices are sparsely attended, which affects the intensity.”
Building Skills and Enjoying the Game
Despite varying levels of commitment, many athletes recognize the importance of JV sports in skill development. Iris emphasizes, “The purpose of playing a JV sport is to work on basic skills and improve your overall game.”
Robbie Baker, who plays for JV Boys’ Baseball and Hockey, echoes this sentiment, noting the relaxed environment of JV sports. “It’s a lot more fun and comfortable. I encourage people to join JV sports because it’s a great experience. It shouldn’t be seen as something negative.” He believes that the benefits extend beyond just physical health; they also contribute to mental well-being.
Coaches’ Perspectives on JV Sports
Coaches like Brianna Smith, who has coached JV Girls’ Field Hockey, Basketball, and Softball, find joy in witnessing athletes grow. “It’s rewarding to see students improve their skills and, for some, make varsity. However, attendance and motivation can be major issues,” she explains. “Students often juggle other sports, which can conflict with their commitment to JV.”
Mr. Crihfield, who coaches JV Boys Soccer and Girls Varsity Tennis, also acknowledges the impact of varsity aspirations on dedication. He notes, “Most of our players aspire to make varsity, and typically, a few move up each year. Even those who don’t aim for varsity are dedicated to the sport.” Despite the dedication, he recognizes the stigma surrounding JV sports and hopes for greater acknowledgment of their value. “I would love to see JV sports get a little more recognition. One idea I suggested is a ‘Coaches’ Cup’ for JV teams, allowing us to celebrate players who contribute significantly throughout the season.”
The conversation around JV sports is evolving, with students and coaches alike advocating for their importance in the athletic landscape. The experiences shared by these young athletes reflect a complex interplay of social, competitive, and personal development within the realm of junior varsity sports.
