As the sun went down behind the home bleachers of Corbit field, on Wednesday night, I had my best ever experience at a Victor athletic event. For fans and players alike, the Flag Football victory over Brockport was a highlight of the spring sports season.

Coached by Mr. Finter, assisted by Mr. Ojeda, Mrs. Knapp, and Mr. Weimer, Flag Football is in its inaugural season here at Victor, and attending a game is a must-do on your Spring bucket list.

Over the last nine years, I have attended countless games, matches, races, showcases, and events. From homecoming games, to senior nights, to many teacher recognition games, I think I’ve probably caught nearly every sport at least once (excepting Alpine Ski and golf). And as yearbook advisor, I made it a point to stop by games or events to snap pictures, to capture the lived experience of Victor.

There have been great plays, thrilling wins, and close losses. There have been personal bests, surprise highlights, and technical difficulties. But those notable moments aside, I have never seen a Varsity game with as much joy and potential as Flag Football.

The only points of comparison I have, in terms of enthusiasm and positive vibes, are intramural Quidditch (back when Wednesday games packed the gym with players and spectators) and Unified Basketball, with their dance parties and open arms of acceptance.

Flag Football brought something else though. On Corbit field, I saw a team finding its feet, founding a future, and frolicking with friends. It was the team’s second ever victory, and the start of a streak. It was a showcase of student athletes making stops, running routes, and snagging interceptions. And best of all, it was a sideline filled with celebrations, dedicated coaches, and eager teammates.

Any student who has gotten me off track in class has heard some of my thoughts on athletics. To set the record straight: I am a huge supporter of youth athletics and school sports. I was a three season varsity athlete, and appreciate how much it does for young people as individuals, in terms of teamwork, and for our school culture as a whole. In team sports, students can develop strong habits, find motivation, expend energy, display talents, and form deep bonds. 

All that said, I have also seen the pressure to perform, and have expressed my own concerns about how this pressure affects students. It bleeds into our classrooms and de-prioritizes homework. It complicates time-management. It overpowers future plans and an injury or loss can derail a person or a team. 

Student athletes feel pressure everywhere, but especially at a place like Victor, with such a storied past and consistent present level of success. With State Championship rings, Sectional blocks, and league titles, not to mention individual records and accomplishments and college commitments, Victor sets the bar high for student-athletes. 

Flag football must have felt this. The girls have been deservedly proud to wear their jerseys in school. At the same time though, I have heard dismissive comments from varsity lacrosse and baseball players about how they “haven’t even won a game.” 

Well that has changed now, and in spectacular fashion. The girls had no reason to be discouraged before, as they are a brand new program in a brand new sport. They have even more reason to be encouraged now, after their 19-0 win over Brockport. 

Led by offensive and defensive plays by senior Mya LaBarge, the team trounced Brockport. Quarterback, defensive player and special teams kick-returner Alexa Cummings had her name called play after play as well. 

Credit must be given to the dynamic duo of Olivia and Lily Weidner though, as they seemed to be everywhere on the field. Not to mention, I was sitting with Mr. Reddout, who was squeezed like a sausage into a #33 jersey honoring Olivia.

Best off all, I must shout out #23, Delery Reyes, for absolutely bringing the vibes on the sideline. She danced to every musical interlude and was enthusiastically cheering on her team, along with all the other girls on the deep Victor bench.

Last night, surrounded by other teachers invited to be appreciated, I was treated to a game that reflected what I think is best about high school sports. It was a display of sportsmanship, camaraderie, athletic potential, and enthusiasm that should serve as a testament to Victor athletics and as an example for student athletes. Let’s be loud, proud, positive, and have a lot more fun.