Athletics can be a major part of high schooler’s life. Students enjoy the competitive aspect, and the gratification of success. One goal that seems relevant for all student-athletes is the quest to become captain by their junior or senior year. Most athletes believe the role of being captain is a true honor, and many coaches enjoy giving out the part to an athlete that portrays the qualities of a good leader.

Sam Davenport, Senior at Bethel High School and captain of the varsity lacrosse and soccer teams, describes her feelings. Davenport explains, “I have wanted to be a captain since I entered middle school. The second I stepped onto the soccer field, the basketball court, and the lacrosse field, I always kept my head up and tried my hardest at everything. I knew I had the right personality and mindset to take this role as captain, and my athleticism helped me in achieving this goal as well.”

Davenport takes her role as captain seriously. “Whenever something goes wrong I try to be right there to make it right again. You also need to let every member on the team feel like they are important because in sports it is normal for players to get down on themselves. It is my job as a captain to keep their confidence up.”

The Wildcat Word also had the opportunity to catch up with Mr. Gill, a math teacher at Bethel High School as well as head coach for Varsity Football. He says, “Teams need leadership that comes from other places than the coaches. That leadership can come from other members of the team as well.”

Gill adds, “A captain usually leads the team in the off-season workouts, helps the younger players learn the offense and defense, and is the go to person for various activities that inspire their teammates to give 100% all of the time.” Gill further states he looks for, “Leadership, a good role model, and a team player,” when determining a team captain.

Overall, the title of sports captain is a very honorable mention. Many students work hard to obtain the role, and coaches are very selective in awarding this prestigious honor. Sam Davenport gives these words of advice for those who hope to one day being a team captain. “Just be who you are, and do not hesitate to speak. Always put other players before you put yourself. Also, work your hardest at practice because that is what really shows the heart that you have for the team that you are on. And lastly, never take anything for granted and be thankful for the playing time you get, the teammates that you have, and the coaches that you listen to.”