Ever since the bright lights of Woodforest Stadium went out, the hollars from the track became silent, and the crowds entering volleyball games disappeared, athletes and coaches alike have been anxiously waiting to return to the sport they love. 

Although this summer has been filled with uncertainty concerning Covid-19 sport restrictions, fall sports are finally scheduled to begin in the upcoming weeks. This includes cross country, football, tennis, marching band, and volleyball. Teams were allowed to proceed with their summer practices as usual, but were required to follow strict UIL social distancing guidelines, wear masks, and self-screen for Covid-19 symptoms each day. Many teams faced challenges adapting to these guidelines, but they were able to adjust knowing their seasons were on the line. 

“Right now we meet very early in the morning to get our runs done before it gets too hot outside,” Girls Cross Country coach, William Fairhurst said “We social distance and use masks at practice to help keep everyone safe. Running is a social sport, it has been difficult to work for a team goal while being apart at times. The girls are doing a good job of staying positive, but miss their teammates when they can not see each other.” 

By taking advantage of the summer months to rigorously train, the reigning district champion Girls Cross Country team will be top competition heading into the season. Their first meet is scheduled to take place September 12th at Mayde Creek. The football team has also been following a strict workout schedule this summer in order to prepare for this season. They have had optional practices 3 times a week and mandatory Zoom meetings twice a week. Seniors Dylan Hazen, Curt Evangelister, and Josh Blackburn have been standout leaders in helping lead the Varsity team through this summer’s obstacles.

“This summer, the players had to work in small groups and didn’t necessarily see everyone on the team each day,” Head Football coach, Lonnie Madison said “They are now getting to do more team workouts which has been great as we approach the start of the regular season.”

The first varsity football game will take place on September 25th at Legacy Stadium where the Cavaliers will take on the Cinco Ranch Cougars. It would not be a true football season without the fans, so Conroe ISD and UIL are working together to create spectator limits and stadium guidelines. It has not been announced how many fans will be allowed in the stands, but it has been announced that pre-purchased tickets will be required for entrance. If fans are unable to make it to the stadium to cheer on the Cavs, they will have the opportunity to do so right from their comfortable couch this season. Woodlands Online will be live streaming the home football games and many volleyball matches this season. Volleyball season is planning to begin on September 15th versus Kingwood Park and tennis matches will begin on September 8th against Grand Oaks. Despite the unprecedented times, all College Park athletes are looking forward to seasons filled with a sense of normalcy, team memories, and victories. 

“The Girls Cross Country team cannot wait to get out and compete in our meets. Even though the pandemic delayed our season, we are all so excited to just start running and make memories with one another,” junior Cross Country runner, Natalie Byrnes said.