The 2024 fall sports season was nothing short of unforgettable, marked by immense joy and pride. From the adrenaline-filled bus rides to away games to the blaring music building up the energy before home games, every moment told a story of dedication. Athletes’ unwavering commitment was seen through the wins celebrated with wide smiles on players’ faces while losses left desire to improve for the team’s next showing. For seniors, the final seasons held stronger meaning, resembling a conclusion to four years of grit embedded in their memories.
The varsity girls’ volleyball team capped off their season by qualifying for playoffs. Despite the disappointment of losing in the second round of playoffs, seniors and team captains Izzy Brown and Mia Rios ensured everyone’s heads held high, looking back at all the improvement and bonds created along the way.
“Four years ago I never would have expected to feel this much emotion or be so connected to my team,” said senior Sydney Wong. “This team will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
Throughout the season, certain athletes stood out, not only to their coaches, but also to coaches from the opposing teams. Such recognition prompted these exceptional athletes to receive awards, which they look forward to receiving at the awards dinner, primarily taking place during the first week of December.
Driven by strong team chemistry and everlasting dedication, the boys’ varsity volleyball team showed similar relentless drive, pushing their playoff game against Herricks to the fifth set. Though they fell short, their determination left a lasting impression.
Meanwhile, the boys’ cross-country team ran through their season with a total of 10 meets.
“I felt that the team this year had loads of energy, and the talent level in our underclassmen is impressive,” said junior Max Pour. “It was so great to be able to confidently pull some freshmen up to Varsity for a few races; their potential is through the roof.”
Junior Erick Ramirez and senior Jonah Berkowitz placed 12th and 13th in the all-county meet in the 5K race, respectively. Their performance qualified them for All-County as they finished in the top 25 people of everyone in the county championships.
In the pool, senior Mali Cooper and junior Angelina Zhang achieved county-level rankings in swimming and diving. Zhang placed 10th in the county for diving and also placed 46th in the country for the 500 Freestyle. Cooper also impressed many, placing 6th in the county for diving. The girls’ commitment to the team was clearly expressed through early morning practices, resulting in exceptional times in each of their events.
As the girls’ varsity field hockey team exceeded expectations, they celebrated their remarkable season through their appearance in the playoffs for the first time in over 20 years. Senior athletes looked back on how far they have grown from their freshman year until now.
“I am so beyond proud of my team for how far we came this season, even [when faced] with the doubt of many people,” said junior Gabriela Sedaghatpour.
Both soccer teams finished off their seasons with determination and courage. The girls’ varsity soccer team ended with six wins, three ties, and four losses. Although the team came close in critical games, they ultimately came up short of playoffs, persevering through hard fights while sporting a “never give up” attitude. Meanwhile, the boys’ team advanced to the second round of playoffs through their teamwork and commitment.
Seniors on every team left their final games with mixed emotions and bittersweet feelings: thankful for the memories and experiences from the last few years, but upset that it was all slowly coming to a close. As the fall season comes to an end, athletes look forward to the winter season approaching. All of North High’s athletes have imprinted a meaningful legacy on the school’s athletics and culture throughout the fall season and their high school careers, serving as an inspiration for seasons to follow.
