Football Homecoming 2025
Ballew crowned queen during September homecoming celebration
By Sammie Phipps Sophomore
Homecoming is a big tradition at Williamsburg High School. Although the traditional dance isn’t hosted anymore, the excitement of homecoming week reached a new high at Williamsburg this year, as students, faculty, and alumni gathered to celebrate the crowning of this year’s Homecoming Queen.
The court, a diverse group of young women chosen by their peers for their leadership, school spirit, and positive influence on the community, shows the values that make the school unique.
Each nominee of this year’s court demonstrated not only their school pride, but also a deep commitment to making the school a welcoming and inclusive place for all.
The court is nominated and voted on during Spirit Week, which is a special week prior to Homecoming meant to rally school spirit. Spirit Week includes dress up days throughout the week and a pep rally to hype up the students of Williamsburg Independent School in preparation of Homecoming. A big portion of the entire school is involved, not just the court.
The homecoming walk was held before the first scheduled home game of the season, though a scrimmage was held in lieu of the game due to a forfeit by Frankfort.. As students, staff, alumni, and community member gathered at the Ralph Prewitt/ Finley Legion Field to see a queen be crowned.
Among a strong court of potential contenders, Taylor Ballew was elected as the 2025 football homecoming queen, as voted by her peers at school. Ballew received her crown from former queen Emma Meadors.
Ballew spoke with The Buzz Newspaper following her win, saying, “It means a lot to me. I was very surprised and happy to receive the title. I want to represent my school with my positive attitude and define what it is like to be a real Jacket.”
The event was a reminder of the strong unity and tradition that continues to define Williamsburg year after year.
The entire court included: freshmen Ahna Marlow and Zoey Petrey; sophomores Chloe Sawyers and Reighanna Wyatt; juniors Abby Jackson, Cashtyn
Barton, and Rylee Spray; and seniors Giovanna Ballew, Jenna Prewitt, Natalee Chancellor, and Taylor Ballew. Prince Noah Helton and Princess Kaylee Day were crowned at the pep rally and also walked with the rest of the court.
A Life of Strength and Dedication: Remembering Joanna Mahan Middleton
love,
By Michelle Creekmore, Leah Harrison & Sherry Reed Special to The Buzz
In September 2019, Joanna Mahan Middleton received the difficult diagnosis of breast cancer. With courage and determination, she underwent a double mastectomy, facing the disease head-on. Despite her efforts, the cancer later spread to her liver, and she began undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
Throughout her journey, Joanna carried herself with dignity and pride. She never once complained about her illness, even as the treatments grew more challenging. Instead, she focused her energy on what mattered most to her—her family, her students, and her colleagues.
Even during treatments, Joanna remained committed to her work. From home, she continued to stay involved with her school, always thinking about the staff and students she cared for so deeply. Her resilience and dedication became a source of inspiration to all who knew her.
Before her passing, Joanna left behind words of wisdom that continue
to guide those who loved her: love deeply, get your life right with God, and do not stress over the small stuff— because that’s not the big picture.
Joanna’s story is not only one of courage in the face of illness but
also a reflection of her unwavering commitment to others. She will always be remembered for her strength, her selflessness, and the love she showed both in and beyond the classroom.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month
approaches, let Joanna’s journey be a reminder to women everywhere: make sure to schedule your annual exams and continue performing selfexaminations. Early detection can save lives—and it might just save yours.
Photos provided
Joanna Mahan Middleton began her career at Williamsburg Independent School in 2009 as an elementary teacher and basketball coach before moving to an administrative role as elementary dean. She passed away in August 2020 after a battle with breast cancer. ABOVE LEFT: Middleton poses with Sherry Reed. ABOVE RIGHT: Middleton is pictured between Michelle Creekmore (left) and Leah Harrison (right).
Photo by Timothy Wyatt Taylor Ballew (middle right) took home the title of 2025 Football Homecoming Queen during the annual homecoming celebration on Sept. 2 at the Rose-Stanfill Stadium. Ballew was escorted by Skylur Ballew (middle left) and Joseph Partin (right). She was crowned by last year’s queen, Emma Meadors (left).
highlighting current events around the school
By Caleb Nichols Sophomore
At Williamsburg, we are all Jackets, but what does it mean to be a Jacket?
Williamsburg’s tradition of excellence runs back to 1909, but it still plays a vital role in student learning today. Excellence in Williamsburg is achieved through the J.A.C.K.E.T. expectations. The J.A.C.K.E.T. expectations define an individual with integrity, strength, kindness, and, ultimately, excellence.
J. Joyful Thinker.
Joyfulness is like happiness, except it comes from within an individual. To be joyful is to have a deep, inherent feeling of gladness. Williamsburg’s joyful thinkers have a good attitude despite their circumstances, showing positivity and gladness.
A. Accountable Teammate.
A teammate is someone who works alongside others. Whether it be on the sidelines of a football game
or a shoulder partner in science class, accountable teammates understand and fulfill their responsibilities as a teammate.
C. Confident Communicator.
Communication is incredibly important. As the world steers further away from face-to-face communication, Williamsburg’s students are taught to speak with confidence and integrity. A confident communicator is an individual who acknowledges the power of their words and that their words, ultimately, have the power to heal or to hurt. A confident communicator substantiates what they say: Confidence through communication creates trustworthiness within an individual’s speech.
K. Kind Citizen.
Kindness is different from being nice. A nice person is friendly and respectful. A kind person is an individual who reflects a desire for others to succeed in how they act and communicate. Kind citizens display genuine forgiveness, generosity, and compassion for others.
E. Engaged Learner.
Enrollment numbers up at WISD
By Laylee Wyatt Sophomore
Enrollment numbers are at an all-time high compared to the last three years, with there being almost 100 new enrollments for the Williamsburg Independent School District.
The Williamsburg Independent Board of Education held their regular monthly meeting on Sept. 16, where the school district’s Director of Pupil Personnel, Bryan Berta, discussed the increased number of enrollments in the district compared to last year around the same time.
According to Berta, during the 2024-2025 school year, Williamsburg’s enrollment numbers were at 782 as of September, counting Pre-K enrollment. This September, the district’s enrollment rates have bumped up quite a bit, ballooning to 843. That number also considers the current Pre-K enrollment.
The increase does not include
kids who have transferred from other schools within the district. Considering the enrollment numbers counts for the entirety of the Williamsburg district, this increase only counts for kids who have just enrolled this year and came from out of our district to attend classes in the Williamsburg district.
A new community childcare center was also discussed during September’s meeting. The center, which is planned to be opening its doors any day now, is being made possible thanks to a partnership between the University of the Cumberlands, Main Street Baptist Church and the school district. The center will be housed within Main Street Baptist Church and will accept children from birth up to the age of three.
Superintendent Tabitha Housekeeper said that studies show that the most important and developmental stages in a kid’s life are from birth to the age of
five, stating that kids who are exposed to multiple languages in their childhood that they are more likely to learn said language quicker than the average adult or adolescent.
Early childhood is the best time in a child’s life to teach them and help to prepare them for school, according to Housekeeper.
Housekeeper expressed her hopes for the childcare center to be open soon, and that even though there will be a limited number of seats once it is operational, that her and the other entities involved are already envisioning growth for the childcare center.
School board meetings are a formal session that is held once a month regarding a group of elected representatives, this is a meeting held by the school board that is open to the public, where most things discussed involve debates, setting of a schools policy, budgets, adopting curriculum, etc.
KY Ed. Commissioner visits W’Burg Ind.
Photo by Timothy Wyatt
Kentucky Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher Ed.D. visited Williamsburg Independent School in September to tour the district’s facilities and meet with faculty and staff. During his visit, he spoke to teachers and other staff members about his upbringing and how his experiences in school shaped his life and led him into teaching. He also talked about the importance of vibrant learning oppotunities.
(606) 549-6015
Ultimately, school is for learning; engagement is vital for learning. Engaged learners are the individuals who come to school ready to learn. Engaged learners are prepared and have good attitudes towards learning, understanding and fulfilling their roles as students.
T. Trustworthy Leaders.
Leaders are important; trustworthy leaders are even more important. Trustworthy leaders are the individuals who can be trusted to achieve and fulfill their responsibilities as a leader. Williamsburg’s trustworthy leaders have integrity in their leadership, staying determined to work well for others.
Ultimately, being a Williamsburg Jacket means to have integrity, strength, and determination in fulfilling the J.A.C.K.E.T. expectations. Williamsburg is an incredible place because of the Jacket family.
Williamsburg’s graduates, alumni, and students— all together—contribute to the Williamsburg family. At Williamsburg, you are not just a student; you are a Jacket. Never forget that.
W’Burg FFA kicks off the year with music, corn and leadership
By Chloe Sawyers FFA Reporter
The school year is off to a strong start for our FFA chapter, and we’re already making headlines—literally. From county fairs to national honors, our members have been hard at work (and having fun while they’re at it).
A huge congratulations is in order for our very own Zaden Housekeeper, chapter president, who was accepted into the National FFA Band! Zaden will be representing not just our school, but the entire state. Talk about making some noise for Kentucky! If that’s not impressive enough, Zaden was also recently elected as the Kentucky River Region Sentinel, taking his leadership to a whole new level. Our chapter made noise at the annual Back to School Bash—literally. We hosted a fan-favorite train ride, complete with buggies filled with corn. Yes, corn! Kids (and let’s be honest, a few highschoolers too) loved climbing in, digging around, and taking a ride with the best officer crew around! We also proudly attended the Kentucky State Fair, where our members had the chance to explore agrelated exhibits, connect with other chapters, and get inspired for the year ahead. Chloe Sawyers and Zaden Housekeeper even received blue ribbons for their handiwork! Zaden won a blue ribbon for his detailed chess board in the wood working category, and Chloe won blue ribbons on two of her pictures in the photography category, plus a blue ribbon on her unique flower bouquet!
One of our biggest highlights so far has been Teach Ag Week, where FFA members rolled up their sleeves and took over classrooms from preschool through middle school, teaching younger students hands-on about agriculture and the importance of farming in our everyday lives. Whether it was reading stories about farming, making dairy products, showing kids how dogs are important to agriculture, or just answering curious questions, our members were shining examples of leadership and how important agricultural education is.
We also turned up the fun with an Elementary Glow Dance, it was about spreading love and giving our younger students a chance to let loose after learning about agriculture! The night was full of neon lights, laughter, and dance moves that only FFA could bring to the dance floor. But the fun didn’t stop there—our high schoolers got their competitive spirit on during the Ag Olympics! It was a day packed with friendly rivalry, laughs, and a whole lot of agricultural and athletic skill. And after a fierce showdown, the purple team emerged victorious as the Ag Olympics champions—way to go, purple team!
It’s shaping up to be an exciting year for our chapter—and we’re just getting started. Stay tuned for more FFA updates, and if you’re not already a member, what are you waiting for? The corn buggies are calling.
Disrespect should not be tolerated
By Lilliana Mosley Sophomore
I’ve noticed lately the sudden disrespect people have for others. Sometimes it’s small and sometimes it’s things you just can’t look past, like harmful comments or even actions towards each other. If you are someone causing issues by being disrespectful, then this is for you.
If you do any of these following things, you are a part of the disrespect and the issue in the school that needs to stop:
Some people think it’s “funny” to make rude or disrespectful comments about people’s styles. In my opinion, if everyone were to look the same, then the world would be a boring place. The different styles and hobbies people have add sparks, and as students, we should back each other up and support each other rather then bringing each other down.
As a newspaper student that has interviewed a handful of fellow students, I’ve heard plenty of stories of students being bullied and it hurts to see the pain and sadness they’ve went through just because someone else decided they were gonna ruin someone else’s day.
Another issue is the unnecessary shoving and pushing in the hallway. Shoving and pushing is just pointless because it is causing more issues and it is extremely harmful since some students do get hurt by it. However, I can understand if you shove because of people randomly standing in the hallway as it can be stressful to get to class (but please, stop standing in the middle of the hallway).
The last issue I’ll be discussing is the fact some people find it funny to mock and make fun of others.
I’ve heard people making fun of others accents or even stutters, which is something people can’t control. I’ve heard plenty of people going around mocking accents just because they think it’s funny to do. I’ve heard of the same issue with stutters also.
These are two things that shouldn’t be mocked at all considering people can’t control how they talk or how they sound. If you do any of these things then you should stop and think about how your actions are effecting others and how they may feel about how you are treating them.
Disrespect shouldn’t be taken lightly no matter if it is a teacher, student or a staff member.
New pathway now available for students
By Marissa Meadors Sophomore
Williamsburg Independent School has added a new pathway for high school students that intend to pursue a career in teaching.
The new Teaching and Learning Pathway provides additional opportunities for students to learn the skills needed to be a teacher while still in school. Susanna Rice, who has taught for nearly 14 years and taught middle school English at Williamsburg for the past six years, has assumed the new role as the school’s teaching and learning teacher.
The pathway started with few students, with only 2 students being enrolled, but has increased to 16 since the start of the school year. So, she has seen a significant uptick in student interest already. And though 16 may still seem like a small number of students,
interested in teaching
that number is high for a pathway that is new.
When talking about the longevity of the new pathway, Rice was enthusiastic about it being something that students will continue to have an interest in.
“I definitely do [think it is going to stick around.]. There were a lot of kids that came several weeks after school had already started, and they wanted to do the pathway. I think we have lots of potential, especially if they want to teach here. This is going to be the best pathway for them to choose,” said Rice.
This pathway will not just help students who just want to teach at Williamsburg, but it will help students that want to teach at any school. Rice has set up the material to be open to any school, and with her experience not only teaching at Williamsburg it will help kids to teach wherever they want to do so.
The curriculum for the classes, however, are all custom-made right here within the school. In fact, it is all made by Rice herself.
“I create all my content. I pull information from what is taught at Cumberlands as well as other schools that have the pathway,” said Rice. Most of the other schools in the area have been offering similar pathways for students already, but this is the first year for it to be offered at Williamsburg. If students are looking for a club that goes with the teaching pathway, Rice said, “It kind of goes along with DECA with talking about leadership.”
You can learn more about this pathway by contacting Rice in-person at Room 211 or via email at Susanna.Rice@ wburg.kyschools.us. You can also get more information from your guidance counselor.
Jacket Newscast returns after long hiatus
By Bella Morin Senior
This year brings in a wave of new students, teachers, clubs, and ideas. Something else new this year is the Jacket News Broadcast—or Jacket Newscast. Returning after approximately 20 years, the new and improved broadcast opens doors for students to voice their creativity in a new, safe environment. Starting this October, the Jacket Newscast will produce an informational, broadcast-journalismstyle video on the current events within and around our school. Each newscast will be posted to the school district’s YouTube and shown during sting on Mondays.
The broadcast, supervised and facilitated by Media Arts CTE Teacher Timothy Wyatt, is a small, intimate production run by senior Bella Morin, sophomore Mason Partin and freshman Maci Wilson. The three students work tirelessly every week to plan, film, edit, and release each video.
The newscast class has already released their first video, which documented the first week of school by interviewing students, staff and administrators about how their experience had been thus far. The newscast currently plans to continue bi-weekly postings throughout October.
The Buzz Newspaper spoke with Wyatt recently about the new class, where he voiced his excitement to help lead the newscast.
By Savanna Bryant & Sophomore Halley Proffitt Sophomore
“From my understanding, it has been quite a while since there has been a consistent newscast here at the school; however, there is a rich history of students participating in broadcast journalism at Williamsburg. I look forward to being able to help bring that opportunity back to students and help them create fun and meaningful content that they will be able to share with the school and community.”.
The team at newscast also said that they are elated to continue production, creating something that will spread news and laughter throughout Williamsburg in an inclusive format, made by students, for students.
W illiamsburg C ross W ord P uzzle
Halley Proffitt Sophomore
Get to know the new teachers at W’Burg Ind.
By Kara Moses Freshman
There are very many new teachers this year at Williamsburg Independent Schools.
All those lovely new teachers have multiple things to say about both why they chose Williamsburg and a few things about themselves that they would love their students to know.
Velva Barker is one of the new teachers Williamsburg. Barker says, “I came to Williamsburg to teach because there was a need for a math teacher, and I was contacted to see if I was interested in teaching again” Barker was a teacher for 29 year and returned to the classroom full-time after four years of retirement. Barker says, “I would like for my students to know that they can ask me for help anytime.”
Tyler Hoster, another new teacher says, “When I graduated from [University of Kentucky], I decided that no matter what I would get a job in eastern Kentucky. Right before I was about to give up and get a different job, Principal Partin gave me a call, and I knew my prayers were answered.” Something that Hoster would like his students to know “Teaching this class is a learning experience for me just like it is you all. If you think I should do something different as a teacher, schedule me for Friday’s during advisory and come talk to me about it, I am willing to listen.”
John Harris would like everyone to know that “I teach 8th grade English Language Arts. I decided to start teaching at Williamsburg because it’s in my community. I became a teacher to help students to be better citizens and to enjoy learning. Every day, I try my best to be positive, joyful and model the behavior that I want to see in my students. There are two things that I’d like my students to know about me. I would like them to know that I will attend their events after school, and I truly enjoy being in the classroom.”
Timothy Wyatt is another teacher who would like the students of Williamsburg to know “I had several reasons for deciding to teach at Williamsburg. I spent most of my professional career as a journalist, and though I enjoyed the work, I had become burnt out. I felt like this was a good opportunity to make a meaningful change in both my life and that of my children, all of whom are students at this school. I was also excited at the prospect of being able to continue working in journalism by teaching and managing the student newspaper at the school… I am basically a big kid… I love to goof off and laugh. I also have a lot of different interests and hobbies, including: playing music, drone photography/videography, playing video games and collecting trading cards, such as Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering.”
Brianna Henry says, “I decided I wanted to teach at Williamsburg because I love their passion for creating vibrant learning experiences, the support they give to their teachers and students, and how they ensure every student has their needs met and become a better person.” And Henry wants everyone to know that she has “been where they are and I want to help them succeed personally and academically. I want them to
know that I will always support them and help them in any way I can.”
Victoria Ammon is another new teacher in Williamsburg’s halls. Ammon would like to say, “I loved the atmosphere of K-12 being in one building. This is something that is so special and not common with public schools. It also gave me the opportunity to be close to my daughter and not feel that I’m taking so much time away from her. lived the last four years in Poland and taught high school English there. I enjoy time in my garden and in a kayak on a lake.”
Crystal Smiddy’s message for students is, “I decided that I would like to teach at Williamsburg due to the emphasis on building relationships with students. I fully believe that early school experiences for students and families at the preschool level makes a difference. As a preschool teacher, I have a unique opportunity to build relationships with students as well as their families. I enjoy teaching preschool. I love the imagination and unique perspective that young children bring to education. The value of highquality early childhood education is immeasurable. I want my students to feel welcomed, loved and valued in my classroom.”
Hannah Flora would like students to know that she came to this school, “Because I want to contribute to this community that I grew up in.” And Flora would like to tell students that “I want students to know that I will always be in their corner and will help in any way I can.”
William Gibson would like to tell students and staff, “I chose to teach at Williamsburg because I was drawn to the close-knit community and the school’s strong commitment to student success. I appreciate the focus on individualized education and the opportunity to really get to know my students and support them both academically and personally. Being part of a school that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous growth is important to me, and I felt that Williamsburg offered all of that. I truly care about your growth—not just in this subject, but as a person. I’m here to support you and help you build confidence in your abilities. I value honesty, effort, and respect in my classroom. You don’t have to be perfect—just be willing to try, ask questions, and be kind to others. Outside of school, I enjoy watching football, reading, and learning new things.”
Adam Nicholson says that he came to Williamsburg for the community and small class sizes. “I’m an avid golfer. I study theoretical cosmology and quantum electrodynamics in my free time; and I started taking piano lessons this past July at the age of 41.”
Brandon Bargo, another new teacher, said, “I chose Williamsburg because I believe in surrounding yourself with good people and Williamsburg offers that. I’m a Kentucky, Bengals, and Reds fan. You can find me at a sporting event or on the lake.”
So, no matter how little students may see these new teachers always make sure to tell the new teachers at Williamsburg “hello” and welcome to the Jacket Family.
10
easy steps to being
a good student
By Aksh Banker Senior
1. Arrive to class on time.
2. When the teacher is doing their job, stop talking to your peers and don’t be on a device until instructions have been given.
3. Don’t be afraid to answer questions, even if you think you’re wrong.
4. If you want to tell the class something or answer the teacher, always raise your hand.
5. Help your fellow classmates whenever they need help.
6. Don’t yell or make loud noises. Think about those around you.
7. Don’t fight anyone.
8. Do your work. Don’t just sit there.
9. Don’t talk bad about anybody.
10. Study hard when you get home.
Which staff member do you feel is under-appreciated?
By Lilliana Mosley Sophomore
“Mr. Hendricks in the fifth grade classroom. He is always there for everybody and he even takes people outside to talk to them sometimes. Even when my papaw passed, he hugged me and talked to me about it. When I wasn’t at school, everybody already knew the answers to past assignments but he made sure to go over it again in class. He even talked to me about it to make sure I understood it.” - Heaven Croley
“Mr. Watson because he talks more like a normal person and he actually helps in class. He also actually helps when you need help. He doesn’t put on a fake teacher act with students. He’s generally a good teacher and I feel like I’ve learned more from him from the past three grades. Mr. Watson is awesome sauce, yo.”Jacob Young
“I would say Mrs. Partin. She’s under-appreciated because I feel like she doesn’t get enough respect. When she goes on stage nobody claps for her when really she needs more people to clap for her. Also, she really cares about our school and she would really like do anything for students. Also she is just like awesome sauce and she is just generally cares.”
- Marissa Meadors
JACKETS FAN ZONE
Cross country takes grit and determination
By Marissa Meadors Sophomore
Mud, sweat, and tears. Cross country is a mix of emotions thrown into a course. It takes grit to be able to do cross country. Starting off a race, you feel excited and ready to go. Then when you hit the second mile you feel like death; you’re breathing hard, and you feel like giving up. Then the third mile hits and the adrenaline kicks in to finish the race.
While cross country is an individual sport, it also has a team aspect. It is run on different types of terrain, which consist of grass, dirt, hills, and sometimes concrete. A middle school race is approximately 2 miles. A high school race is 3.1 miles.
Williamsburg’s cross-country team is coached by Misty Croley. She is in her second year coaching cross country, but she coached middle school track and field for three years. Chad Terry is the team’s assistant coach. The boys’ cross country team consist of Waylon Poindexter, Pascual White, Gage Smith, Jack Brooks, Bryson Hamby, Ian Cristopher, and John White. The girls’ cross country team consists of Kara Fuson, Tatum Croley, Addison Jarboe, Marissa Meadors, Ashtyn Foley, Hailey Adkins, Abigail Workman, Katherine Brown, and Maci Wilson. The current roster is a mixture of seniors to fifth grade.
The biggest gain for doing cross
country is it makes you stronger mentally and physically. It helps to mentally become stronger through the endorphins being realized to the brain, which is known as the happy chemical. Also, it has benefits for athletes because it could help you get in shape for a different sport season. The hardest thing about doing cross country is truly the mind games you play with yourself in your brain.
One of the goals for this season is to build up the program by getting more runners. The teams have made improvements by offering a program for little kids called “Williamsburg Runners.” The coach of the “Williamsburg Runners” is Kevin Brooks.
That also leads to one of the problems with cross country, which runners have not run before joining then not having a foundation. The team has made progressions by practicing, stretching, and practicing good nutrition.
The next meet is at Williamsburg’s home course for the Fog River Run Invitational on Oct. 4. That meet will be followed up by the SEKC Cross Country Championship on Oct. 14. The last official meet of the season will be the Morgan County Last Chance Meet on Oct. 18. You can join cross country by speaking to Croley in Room 121 or via email at Misty.Croley@wburg. kyschools.us.
Lady
Jackets Volleyball wins at state tourney
By Kinley McNew Junior
The Varsity Lady Jackets volleyball team made history last month by winning the program’s first-ever All-A State Tournament game.
The team travelled to Owensboro for the tournament, where they defeated Heritage Christian before falling to Raceland.
Despite the loss, the Lady Jackets had a strong showing during the
All-A Region Tournament, where they played a total of 8 teams, including Harlan Independent, Red Bird, OBI, Middlesboro, Barbourville, Pineville and Jackson County.
The Lady Jackets fought hard to get to the top of the winning bracket.
According to Coaches Dirk Berta, Josey Berta and Natalie Morris, they were pleased with the outing, and players were pleased to win their first game at state ever.
Overlooked Sports: Shining a light on the mental demands of golf
By Haylee Moses Freshman
Golf is often dismissed as a boring sport, but high school golf stands out as one of the most mentally demanding activities on campus. It’s a game of precision, strategy, and intense concentration. Athletes not only compete against each other, but also against the course itself. Every round presents new challenges, and every shot counts. Just one mistake can ruin an otherwise perfect round, making focus and composure essential for every golfer. Countless hours are spent perfecting swings, studying course layouts, and practicing putts, often through both triumph and disappointment. Yet through it all, young golfers learn invaluable lessons about discipline, focus, and maintaining composure under pressure. High school golf isn’t solely about individual performance; it’s also about the bonds formed with teammates and the sense of community that comes with being part of a team. High school golf is quickly becoming one of the most popular sports for students, and for good rea-
son. It’s not just about swinging clubs and hitting balls—it’s about building skills, making friends, and learning important life lessons. Golf teaches patience, focus, and discipline, qualities that help students both on and off the course. Plus, it’s a lowimpact sport that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their athletic background. Joining the golf team can also open doors to scholarships and college opportunities, making it a smart choice for students thinking about their future.
Besides personal growth, golf also offers a unique social experience. Unlike many team sports, golf allows players to compete individually while still being part of a team. This balance helps students develop independence and teamwork at the same time. Golf courses also provide a peaceful environment, which can be a great way to relieve stress from schoolwork and other pressures. Many students find that playing golf helps them clear their minds and stay focused throughout the day.
Another great benefit of joining the high school golf team is the chance to travel and compete in different tournaments. This experience helps students
build confidence and sportsmanship, as they meet new people and face new challenges. Coaches and teammates often become like a second family, providing support and encouragement that lasts beyond the golf course. Two of Williamsburg’s players who made the most improvements on our golf team are Sammie Phipps and Asher Ellis.
Phipps found learning the new skills and getting involved in our new program has benefited her in multiple ways. Asher Ellis has demonstrated great sportsmanship and his dedication is unmatched. At the All- A Tournament, Phipps shot 78 on a 9- hole course. Asher Ellis shot 75 on a 9- hole course.
In short, joining the high school golf team is an opportunity for students to grow in many ways. It’s a sport that builds character, offers social connections, and opens doors for the future. Whether a student is a beginner or has some experience, golf welcomes everyone with open arms. So, if you’re looking for a sport that combines fun, challenge, and opportunity, our high school golf team will be a perfect fit for you.
Photo courtesy of Carrie Mattingly