As the temperature drops and the preseason concludes, the fall sports season has commenced. Homecoming excitement is upon us, along with the athletes’ preparation for sectional games and state championships. 

Starting August 8, the Parker soccer, field hockey, tennis, volleyball, golf, and cross country teams began their pre-season journey. In preparation for the season, athletes have attended practice at least once a day. Their training continues, now proceeding a school day. 

Boys Soccer Coach Neil Curran is “impressed” by the hard work and team culture throughout the preseason. “The athletes started off the preseason enthusiastic and excited,” Curran said. “We came together as a team, demonstrating an excellent culture both on and off the field, which I believe will pay dividends as the season progresses. The first three games have clarified things to think about and work on.” 

Team captain Senior Charles Fardon plans to appreciate and relish his final soccer season. “I’m not trying to dread all of the conditioning and work we do, but actually I am trying to enjoy my last season at Parker because I know that I am never going to be able to do it again,” Fardon said. “I’m trying to make it special.” 

Fardon also has advice for freshmen only starting their high school experience. “All I got to say is give it all you got,” Fardon said. “I remember freshman year I was drenched in sweat after every practice. What is most important is to stay humble. Let people know you are here to play soccer and get better. You got to be a team player. You want to show everyone else that you mean business.”

The transition from middle school to upper school is always difficult for incoming freshmen. That being said, new freshman Heath Albert spoke positively about his experience in preseason. Albert is new to the soccer team and described feeling “welcomed” by captains and fellow athletes. “I think the captains have been very supportive so far,” Albert said. “I am really excited to start the season. Although there haven’t been as many incoming freshmen as I would’ve hoped, I am really looking forward to the season.”

Ana Franco, in her second year as a field hockey captain, has been impressed by the team spirit in preseason. “I definitely think the whole team dynamic has gotten better compared to last year,” Franco said. “This year everyone is very high spirited and excited for the season. We all support each other more. Everyone is very positive and the coaches know when it’s time to have fun but they also know when it is time to get serious and condition.”

The golf season is off to a strong start with several victories. The team beat Lincoln Park High School on August 30 and beat University of Chicago Laboratory Schools on August 23.

A sophomore new to the golf team, Erik Lazarre, wants to enhance his golf skill despite there being many members on the team. “So far I am satisfied with my performance,” Lazarre said. “However, I am looking to improve. There are a lot of people on the team which makes it more difficult.”

As the new volleyball captain, senior Samara Boyd wants to have team chemistry this year. “I’m super excited to see both the new and returning players grow and connect with one another and become not just a team, but a family,” Boyd said.

Ted Ledford leads the cross country team for the third year in a row alongside Assistant Coach Audrey Michaelson. Captain Johnny Manseuto is looking forward to the season. 

“This season we have a lot of new faces from across grades, we’re really looking forward to getting to know everyone and see them grow as athletes,” Manseuto said. “Later in the season we are very excited about our championship series and what that brings for the team.” 

The girl’s tennis team has begun their season by playing matches in various locations. Captain Sadie Gallagher said that so far, the team is doing a “really great job”.

“It is interesting having some players that have never picked up a racket and some who have played their whole lives,” Gallagher said. “Sometimes it is hard to balance, but in general, all has been good.”