"As someone who used to be a super quiet and introverted kid, being a part of Pinewood football has allowed me to be more vocal and step out of my comfort zone. Being communicative has allowed me to form new bonds with my teammates that will last me throughout my senior year and beyond."

"Being a positive team member and role model is my number one goal. Recently, I saw how being an encouraging and positive teammate helped my team and me play one of the best games we've ever played. We lost, but my teammates and I didn't feel discouraged. We were able to focus on what we did well. We communicated, we knew our positioning on the court, and executed plays efficiently. I helped create the supportive team spirit. Through volleyball, I have learned that leadership is about pulling people up."

"Pinewood’s athletic program has helped acquaint me with my new classmates. We have developed bonds through shared experiences, and I even got to meet them one week before school started so I could get to know them even better. Pinewood’s athletics have also helped me befriend those in grades higher than mine and grow closer to the highly supportive and friendly community we have here."

"Outside of tennis, I am the head sections editor of the yearbook, a member of the photography club, and am involved in a number of theater activities—including acting, tech theater, and tech crew. I love art and I try to participate in as many visual and performing arts activities as I can. The packed schedule and hours spent are completely worth the joy I get from doing what I love."

"Balancing athletics and extracurriculars as a student has challenged me with my time management skills. I hold myself to a higher standard and strive to be the best version of myself as a representative of Pinewood athletics. Being a part of so many programs has really diversified my high school experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for that."

"Throughout my years on the tennis team, I have met some of the most amazing, kind, and warm friends who have truly made my love for tennis grow. Sports can get really competitive, and while it is important to have a winning mindset, it is just as important to have fun, which is what my years on the team have taught me. It is really empowering to represent our school as a sports team, and there's always tons of energy and excitement during games."