For the many students who participate in athletics at WHS, training doesn’t stop when the school year ends. While most students look forward to relaxing in the summer sun, many student-athletes stay committed to their sports through off-season training. From weightlifting to skill work, summer is a critical time to prepare for upcoming seasons. 

   “I think [summer training] is important so you can stay in shape and get better for the next season,” junior lacrosse player Henry Kano said. 

   The work put in during the summer helps athletes maintain momentum and come into their seasons both physically and mentally confident and ready. 

   “It definitely helps set the tone for how I want to perform during the school season,” senior volleyball player Fielding Mayhugh said. 

   Athletes often take charge of creating their own workout routines without the structure of daily practices. 

   “Some days I definitely lack motivation, but I push myself because I really want to improve my shooting skills,” sophomore basketball player Ashley DeFilippo said. 

   Strength and conditioning are key parts of most athletes’ summer schedules, and this includes everything from strength exercises to agility work done at home or at a gym. 

   “I lift weights a couple days a week when I don’t have club practice,” Mayhugh said. “It’s not too intense but it helps me keep my strength.”

  The freedom of summer allows athletes to work out whenever they choose to without having to worry about it conflicting with school hours.  

   “I work out every day except Sundays and play lacrosse three times a week,” Kano said. “Sometimes I’m more motivated because I get to go when I want to instead of when I have to.”

  Many athletes find it useful to work with private trainers or coaches to hold themselves accountable and keep performing at a high level. 

   “I strength train with a trainer, which is really helpful,” DeFilippo said. “For basketball, I train by myself, with my brother and dad, and with teammates as well.” 

   Drills and repetition are just as important as strength when it comes to improving at specific sports. 

   “Playing with my teammates really helps me get in a lot of serves and hits, which is super beneficial to my game,” Mayhugh said. 

   Even with all the focus on training, athletes recognize that recovery is just as important as pushing through tough workouts. 

   “Staying hydrated is very important, especially over the summer,” DeFilippo said. “It definitely helps me feel stronger when I play.”

   Sleep is another major part of recovery: while schedules vary, many athletes prioritize getting enough rest so they can keep up with their routines. 

   “I try to get at least seven hours,” Kano said. “It’s very important for recovery and staying locked in.” 

   Some WHS athletes also attend camps, clinics or showcases to improve their skills and gain exposure during the recruiting process. 

   “I went to Colgate University volleyball camp and a few showcases during my recruitment process,” Mayhugh said. “It gave me a glimpse of what it’s like to play with elite athletes and helped me realize how much I want to play in college.” 

   Club sports are also a great way to enhance athletic performance and strength. 

   “Playing school and club soccer allows me to play all year around, which I love but at times it can get draining,” Darling said. 

   College camps and showcases are also great opportunities that allow athletes to demonstrate their skills outside the regular sports seasons.  

   “My team would travel to a bunch of showcases along the east coast and sometimes in Florida for showcases, which was super fun,” senior soccer player Emma Darling said. 

   Despite the challenges, athletes agree that the time and effort put into summer training is worth it. Engaging in the full range of training experiences helps them build confidence and prepare for the season ahead. 

   “Summer training is about being ready, not just physically but also mentally,” senior rower Thomas Lee said.

   Training over the summer can also give athletes an edge in earning their desired spot on a team. 

   “Working out over the summer is really helpful when the season rolls around,” senior basketball player Cora Nicolaisen said. “I like feeling strong and prepared when tryouts come along.” 

   For many athletes, the biggest challenge is managing their time: balancing summer training with jobs, vacations, and enjoying a break. 

   “I try to make time for everything,” Lee said. “We have so much time in summer so it’s such a great opportunity to get better.”