BrookeHerdzina

As the second quarter rolls around, so does another season of winter sports at Marian. Sports are always an integral part of the Marian community but during winter months when school gets more challenging and the days feel longer, they are the perfect outlet and community to be a part of. 

Bowling will start out its season with tryouts on Nov. 13 and 14 at Maplewood Lanes. The bowling team consists of 12 girls who compete in different meets throughout the winter months and try for a chance at State in February. Girls honed their skills in the summer months during “Bowling Week” from July 10 to14 at Maplewood Lanes. The bowling team’s head coach is Mr. Chris Dziadus and this year he will be joined by Mr. Ted Baer, new assistant coach and experienced bowler. 

Basketball will also start its season this quarter and consists of three teams: reserve, junior varsity, and varsity. The basketball head coach is Mr. Tom Tvrdy. Even when not in season, these athletes work hard during conditioning to ensure they are playing to the best of their ability. 

Before school, “morning shoot-arounds” are held to help girls work on scoring. After school, “skill work sessions” are held as well to perfect technique for different moves. 

During practices, the girls work on their skills with drills that help to drive competition but also camaraderie among teammates. The basketball teams have specific traditions that foster a sense of belonging among girls. “On the reserve team, our tradition was to say our team chant each game,” sophomore Caroline Keating said. 

The official Swim and Dive season will also begin this month. Because Marian doesn’t have a pool on campus, swimmers opt to practice at UNO, and divers practice at Burke High School. Swim and Dive at Marian is unique because there is only a varsity team. The Marian Swimming and Diving team has earned 15 state titles, which has earned Marian’s program a spot in Nebraska State history. Both teams are coached by Mr. B.J. Christiansen. Tryouts will be held on Nov.13 and 14. 

Wrestling, another winter sport, is still fairly new to Marian. The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) began sanctioning the sport in 2021. That being said, Marian has already made waves in the sport with several girls reaching state last year. Senior Martha Hinneh placed third. The season will begin with tryouts on Nov. 13. These athletes also participate in pre-season conditioning, including running drills and group work on the mats. During practice, the girls learn new moves and the correct techniques to use during their matches. 

Instead of a traditional senior night, the team opts to hold a surprise senior night at practice. “Overall the team has a great dynamic and is always there for everyone. I first found interest when I was doing conditioning with Coach Barefoot. She was always hyping up wrestling and how everyone should come and try it and after a little bit of persuading, I did. I would encourage everyone to try it,” freshman Joelle McKamy said. Marian’s wrestling team is coached by strength coach, Ms. Lauren Barefoot. 

Marian sports are an opportunity to get involved at Marian and form connections with teammates and coaches. With special traditions and a sense of community, Marian sports impact students for years to come. Will you be joining a winter sport this year?