After all of the games, practices and long bus rides, this fall marks the end of an era for senior athletes. The seasons that once felt endless are now officially memories, proof of just how fast four years can come and go.
Across every fall team, seniors like Sydney Hoffman ’26 are looking back on the moments that shaped them, on and off the volleyball courts. As she reflects on her past years, Hoffman thinks about her best memories with the team.
“It was my sophomore year and we were playing South Lyon East. The game went all the way to five sets,” Hoffman said. “We ended up winning, and it was the most fun and competitive game I’ve ever played.”
Beyond the excitement of games, volleyball has taught her lessons Hoffman knows she’ll carry with her for her upcoming college years and the rest of her life.
“Volleyball has taught me resilience, there are going to be moments in my life that I’ll need to overcome, and I think volleyball has helped me prepare for that.” Hoffman said.
Seniors are not just thinking about themselves; they’re also focused on guiding the younger players, and being leaders. For soccer goalkeeper Andrew Goudie ’26, being a senior means stepping up and helping underclassmen grow.
“I want to be a good role model for them, and get underclassmen moving in the right direction,” Goudie said. “Also to see me as someone they could come to for advice”.
It is this exact focus of being a good role model and accessible leader that is evident in captain of the field hockey team, Charlie Harr ’26. Making it a point to support everyone on her team while keeping things positive and encouraging, she believes that strong leaders lift others while staying confident in their own abilities.
“It’s important to talk to everyone and coach without being rude, have confidence over arrogance to make sure everyone feels supported so the team can improve together,” Harr said.
As the final whistle blows, what remains isn’t the wins or the losses, but the feeling of being a part of something bigger than a name on a roster. All of the time that these athletes have given to their sports over the years have shaped exactly who they are today.
“One word to describe my last season is unbelievable, because I can’t believe I am closing this chapter that has been such a big part of my life for the past seven years,” Hoffman said.
