Athletics have always been a big part of the Marian community. At least 250 students each year participate in one or more of the nine sanctioned sports that are offered here. As time consuming as one sport may be, some students take on the challenge of two or three sports.
Many students play sports to keep in shape or have fun, but others play for the competition and love of the sport. Marian's level of competition enables many students to continue at least one of their sports in college.
Those who are involved in more than one sport do not have a lot of extra time, but still find ways to manage the time they do have. Channing O'Neill, sophomore, said, "Because of the limited amount of time I have, I know that I have to manage my time in order to get my homework done." O'Neill participates in cross country in the fall, track in the spring, and basketball all year round.
Bridget Corrigan, senior, participates in track in the spring and basketball all year round. She said, "In season, it is easier to manage my time because I am on a set schedule."
Most student's schedules begin early in the morning and do not end until the late hours of the night. These schedules involve everything from practices and games to going to school and doing homework.
Many students play a variety of sports all year round so that they always stay in shape. "Cross country and track help me to condition for basketball," said O'Neill.
The coaches are well aware of the fact that some students use their sports as conditioning for other sports. " If they are not working to the best of their ability, then they should not be there."
There may be some challenge to participating in more than one sport, but many think it is worth all of the effort. "I love the way I feel after winning a game or doing well in a meet," said OĠNeill.