Transitioning from high school sports to college–level sports is no easy task. However, some freshmen found an easy transition and maintain a high level of success.
Playing in all of the men’s water polo games, Hunter Barnett, business administration major and attacker, has helped his team achieve a 21-10 record while scoring 30 goals. Barnett said he believes the level of play is different from high school.
“The biggest difference is how much faster the pace of the game is played,” Barnett said. “You have to be two steps ahead at all times to keep up with the pace of the game.”
While still new to playing at the college level, Barnett said he has much to learn and seeks guidance from upperclassmen and his coaches.
“All of the credit for the success I’ve been having this year goes to the leadership above me, starting with the coaches,” Barnett said. “The senior captains have been a big help, too. I look up to them, and they have helped me, guide me the past few months, and everyone on the team is super encouraging to help me get better.”
While some freshmen help their team in the pool, others have found success on the field.
Ari Coronado, freshmen kinesiology major and forward, has played all but one game for women’s soccer this season.
Coronado made a difference for the team when she came off the bench, helping the team win 12 games this year.
“This season I have contributed two game-winning goals. I also have given my team my 100 percent dedication and hard work,” Coronado said. “The high level of intensity I play with changes the game. My main strength is my speed and ability to pressure the defensive line.”
Having three years left until she graduates, Coronado has big plans for the remainder of her time with the Lancers.
“I hope to continue to become a better player and make an impact at CBU. I would hope to place top-three each year and win conference,” Coronado said. “Personally, I will push myself to my full potential and continue to grow as a player and person, and one day I’d hope to lead our team to a championship.”
While some athletes found success during their first semester at CBU, other incoming players will find his or her success next semester .
Maddie Schwegler, freshman business administration major and utility player for women’s water polo, said she is seeking guidance from coaches and upperclassmen before her season starts in the spring.
“The coaches (and upperclassmen) are all great and they know how to work with you,” Schwegler said. “All of the women work hard and it shows in their work ethic and it is something they’re teaching me.”
Meanwhile, freshmen athletes will seek guidance from upperclassmen and their coaches and look to improve as players.
