As Iowans, many of us are ready for the weather to warm up so we can spend more time outdoors. The smell of “fresh earth” that is brought to us by the early spring months brings much anticipation of later sunsets, budding trees, and the excitement of new activities. At Benton Community schools, that excitement is shown within the high participation numbers amongst high school students as they begin the sporting seasons of the spring: golf, soccer, and track.
As the head boys track and field coach I am extremely pleased with the number of students participating in our program. We are already a couple of weeks into the season with one meet under our belts. Our boys and girls track numbers are strong at 51 and 46 athletes, respectively. These athletes will compete in approximately 13 meets over the next few months.
Our soccer programs also enjoy large participation numbers. The boys team anticipates as many as 45 athletes as the season begins next week. The girls program expects their numbers to be in the mid-30s.
Additionally, high school athletes will soon be accompanied by almost 120 middle school track athletes. Though at times it can be overwhelming when we are sharing Bobcat Stadium to prepare for competition, we wouldn’t want it any other way.
Tara Hills golf course outside of Van Horne is soon to be busy as well. As the track and soccer teams prepare for practice at school, roughly 29 boys and 15 girls will be heading to the golf course for practice.
So what is the reasoning for so many students wanting to be involved this spring? Is it the excitement of the warm weather? Athletic tradition and success? Positive experiences with friends? Honestly, it doesn't matter what the reasons are. We have great student-athletes that just want to compete for the royal blue and gold. Let’s Go Bobcats!