As the season progresses, teams determine where they stand going into district games. Coaches look at the schools they are playing, plan strategy and tactics, and decide what players deserve to play.

   The players that coaches have to choose from include freshmen and sophomores coming from JV onto varsity for post-season games.

   One of these underclassmen is sophomore lacrosse player Doug Esherick, who moved up to varsity midway through the season and will continue playing with them for districts and beyond.

   “I was happy when I first moved up to varsity for lacrosse,” Esherick said. “Our team’s been doing very well.”

   Esherick developed a new mentality after moving to the varsity team.

   “Playing on varsity makes me want to work harder and do better,” said Esherick.

   In baseball, freshmen Jesse True and Michael McDermott will likely move up to varsity for districts.

   “It is not official,” McDermott said, “but we [Jessie and I] went to the South Carolina Hilton Head tournament and usually players who go may move up for districts.”

   True anticipates the challenges he will face on varsity.

   “It’s great to have a chance to play at that skill level,” said True.

   McDermott enjoys the demands as well.

   “It puts on pressure, but I like playing at higher level,” said McDermott. “I think it makes me play better too.”

   Any playing time would be sufficient for True.

   “If they can fit me in a position I’ll go wherever,” said True. “It’s just nice to play.”

   Sophomore JV soccer players Mathew Hutchins and JP Anzola already played a few varsity games this season.  Both have been told by varsity coach Marty Pfister that they will continue playing with varsity for districts.

   For Anzola, the physical differences between JV and varsity are noticeable.

   “I can’t run as much,” said Anzola. “The guys are also much bigger.”

   Conversely, Hutchins feels some mental changes.

   “It’s a lot more serious when playing in the game,” said Hutchins. “Just playing under the lights can be a bit scary. However, I think the added fans actually help my game.”

   Encouragement and feedback from varsity teammates ease the transition to the higher level of play.

   “After a few games I have gotten used to it,” said Hutchins. “But it’s still difficult. I’ve been getting advice from varsity players having them tell me what to do and give me confidence. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m not afraid to play, I love playing on varsity.”