As the winter season is almost to a close and the spring season approaches, student athletes at Walkersville High School reflect on their experiences and achievements from the past few months. For many high school students, sports are more than just a hobby– they’re opportunities to grow as individuals, strengthen relationships with teammates, and prepare for future goals, such as earning spots in college programs or competing at higher levels. From early practices to late-night games, the winter season challenged athletes to balance academics, competition, and personal growth. Their dedication and passion has shaped not only their performance on the court or field, but also their character. To share how the season has shaped them on and off the court, field, and mat, several Walkersville athletes spoke about their experiences.
Winter’s Last Laps
One of Walkersville’s sophomores, Caroline Shableski, back spot on Walkersville’s varsity cheer team, traveled to Hawaii this past December after making All-American cheer. She performed in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Day parade, and says that she’s very open to continuing her cheer leading career into college. When asked how she makes sure she’s ready to do her best at both games and practice, Caroline shares, “I make sure I’m ready to work with others; it’s a lot of collaboration.”
Joren McCombs, a freshman on the JV Indoor Track team, has tracked over 200 miles across his first semester at Walkersville, and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Joren runs long distance for track. He says to make sure he’s doing his best at meets, “I like to have a fun time; it gets the pressure off of me.” He believes enjoying his sport keeps him motivated. Joren looks forward to continuing as he does cross country during the fall.
On the women’s varsity basketball team, junior Hawa Traore, reflects on her teammates: “Unfortunately I am injured currently, but I’m glad to be there for them.” She says she feels accomplished to have made the team and looks to her future. “I would love to pursue basketball in college,” she explains. “It’s a big part of my life, and I’m glad to have the privilege to play.” To keep herself playing her best she makes sure to make goals for herself, and ask others where they think she could improve. Hawa also plays flag football and track and field when she’s not on the court.
Senior Corbin Gilbert plays wrestling during the winter with his sister, Mia Gilbert. They both participate in other sports alongside wrestling. Corbin plays football, and Mia plays field hockey. Both strive for excellence: Corbin got first in the Cartwright wrestling tournament and second in the FSK wrestling tournament, and Mia went to states last year for wrestling. To get ready to play, they both like to get their head in the game. “Getting into the mindset,” Corbin responds when asked what helps him do his best. Mia shares, “I’m definitely looking forward to my future in both of these sports, and I’m hoping I can do them when I make it to college”.
Walkersville Dives Into Spring
While the winter season wraps itself up, student athletes look forward to either picking up or continuing sports in the spring — soon high school teams such as track and field, baseball, and lacrosse, among many others, will start their practices, bringing new chances to compete, improve, and represent their school. With fresh seasons come fresh goals, and many athletes are eager to build on the hard work and lessons they carry. Perry Clancy, a sophomore who does both swimming and baseball, explains, “I hope to get into a college with a good sports program”. Perry looks forward to continuing baseball this year — he plays both for the high school and for travel leagues, and says his greatest accomplishment is pitching nine straight strikeouts in one game. Perry keeps a pendant of St. Joseph around his neck for good luck, and practices hard to make sure he’s doing his best at his sports.
Sophomore Cameron McNeish looks forward to continuing track and field in the spring as a varsity player. Cameron says his biggest accomplishment is clearing 11 feet in the pole vault. “I try my best to stay healthy with my eating habits,” Cameron replies when asked how he does his best on the track.
Looking Ahead
Whether wrapping up winter triumphs or gearing up for spring challenges, Walkersville High School athletes have continued to shine through their remarkable dedication, resilience, and teamwork. From the basketball court to the wrestling mat, the track, and the field, every athlete has shown what it means to represent the Lions with pride and perseverance. Their individual journeys—earning All-American honors, breaking personal records, or supporting teammates through recovery—reflect the deep-rooted spirit of growth that defines Walkersville athletics. As the seasons change, the lessons learned this year will carry forward: the discipline built in early-morning practices, the courage to rise after setbacks, and the drive to chase excellence both on and off the field. Together, these experiences form more than just a record of wins and losses—they create a legacy of leadership, sportsmanship, and community strength. The future is bright for Walkersville’s athletes, and with every new challenge comes another opportunity to shine even brighter. So keep pushing, keep believing, and keep reaching for those new victories just beyond the horizon.
