From last-minute goals to motivational pep-talks, athletes have played in games that were determined by a comeback. For many, heated experiences have shaped how they approach competition and understand the meaning of teamwork.
With spring just starting, the SCHS Varsity baseball team has kicked off their season with a series of wins. Senior Charles Conley believes that their strong start reflects their skills and also their focus and preparation heading into each game.
“I try to get myself as calm as I can, to be in the correct mindset so I can think straight and be there for my team,” Conley said. “I listen to relaxing music, but when I get to game time, I start pumping it up.”
During the Ted J. Tamone Memorial Preseason Tournament, the Bruins faced The King’s Academy in one of the most challenging games so far this season. Senior Gregorio Salgado recalled how the team’s determination changed the score in their favor.
“I remember in the first inning, we were down four nothing, but we all huddled up, we came together and motivated each other,” Salgado said. “Throughout the game, we were still losing six to two. But then the last couple innings, we rallied together, got some guys on base, and that included me. I started the rally, getting hit by a pitch, and that led to us taking the lead and winning the game.”
As spring sports get their season started, others are coming to a close. The Bruins’ soccer team ended their season with 12 wins, nine losses and two ties, ultimately making it to the CCS division three finals. While playing in the Central Coast Section tournament, senior Micah Keegan felt the intensity build as the team faced the pressure of being eliminated.
“During our CCS run, we went down 1-0 against Willow Glen, though we were motivated by the threat of elimination. We pushed for a goal and eventually got it in the last minutes of the game,” Keegan said. “We later won in penalties, which allowed us to move on.”
In tough game situations, maintaining the right mindset during high-stake moments can be the difference between a comeback win and a close loss. Soccer player senior Ananth Kini emphasized the importance of staying concentrated regardless of the score.
“If you feel defeated, then the game’s already over,” Kini said. “I always need to stay focused because the game can turn from maybe winnable to not winnable at all if you play like you’re already going to lose.”
Along with maintaining focus, the team emphasized projecting confidence and supporting each other through plays.
“We try to focus on ourselves and our body language so we don’t show any kind of weakness and we keep each other accountable,” Conley said.
While motivation from teammates during games is an important factor of team sports, individual sports such as tennis bring a different perspective. Junior Evelyn Vu, who has played both singles and doubles matches, explained how having a partner in doubles has a distinct sense of encouragement that is not present in singles.
“Playing singles is so different from doubles. I think in doubles, I’m almost a bit more motivated to win because I know that how I perform doesn’t just affect me but also my partner,” Vu said. “When you’re playing individually, all the pressure’s just on you, but you also don’t owe your performance to anyone.”
Similar to Vu, Keegan believes that teammates are motivators for success and help each athlete work harder during games.
“You have a job for your teammates and can’t easily let them down as small mistakes can be the difference between winning and losing,” Keegan said.
Beyond motivation, teamwork also lies in the unique strengths each player brings to the group. Salgado highlighted the importance of the different personalities and skills that lead the team to success.
“I wouldn’t be where I’m at without my teammates, but they also wouldn’t be where they’re at without people like me,” Salgado said. “I think just us as a group, we all push each other to be our best.”