The Article below was published in Vol. 137, Issue 1 of the Lake Forest College Stentor on September 17, 2021.
By Paityn Tabor ’23
Managing Editor and Sports Editor
After nearly two years since a normal, full-length season, fall sports teams here at the College are finally able to get back into the swing of a typical season. While many teams felt grateful to have had the opportunity to play and compete during the shortened season last spring, this fall season has brought with it a sense of both excitement and anticipation that was lacking last semester.
Even though teams still need to wear masks indoors, many of the traditions and activities that teams once took for granted, such as giving high fives or fist bumps, have returned; and with them, a newfound appreciation for the little things that sports have to offer.
“We have always tried to focus on controlling the controllable, but last year was a wake-up call to a lot of things we can’t control that affect our ability to play football,” explained Director of Athletics and Head Football Coach Jim Catanzaro.
This renewed sense of gratitude seems to be a universal sentiment among Lake Forest College coaches. Additionally, it has motivated athletes here at the College to work hard for both themselves and their teammates.
“We were grateful for every day we were able to be in the gym this past spring and now we have that same mindset this fall,” said Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Katie Rueffer. “You never know what could happen, so we are embracing being in the moment and working hard together as a team.”
While getting the opportunity to play a normal season again has been an absolute thrill to teams this fall, many are especially driven to earn a spot in the conference tournament at the end of the season, where they can compete against the very best.
“The team and I are most looking forward to competing for a Conference Championship and an NCAA Tournament berth,” explained Head Women’s Soccer Coach T.R. Bell ’96. “Last year we had a strong team and while we had a good season, it really didn’t mean anything because in the end we weren’t playing for a title.”
The health and safety of the College’s campus community has been the top priority over the past year and a half. While it will certainly remain on the forefront, the wait by our athletes, coaches, and fans will be well worth it—if it means we can finally support and cheer each other on once again.
