By Justin Barger
There’s a new era of sports developing around the world. While classic sports like football and basketball continue to remain popular, new sports have also begun to rise. IHS should at the very least, consider implementing some of these increasingly popular sports.
One of the fastest growing sports in the world right now is pickleball. The racquet sport, played with a ball similar to a wiffle ball, is frequently played and enjoyed by many students and adults. Already featured in gym classes during the year, an organized pickleball team would have tremendous turnout, and would be a successful addition to the IHS sports selection.
Pickleball has faced support from the student body widely thanks to its simplicity and teamwork requirement. One pickleball fanatic, Chloe Swift (10) mentioned that she enjoys pickleball because “it is a social game, and it is very active.”
Pickleball isn’t the only racquet sport that is becoming widespread. Table tennis could be another sport provided to students. Jacob Trencher (10) stated that “It’s a fast-paced game you can play with friends and family.”
Another possibility, hitting the alpine by establishing a ski team. The team would already have a strong foundation, led by Harrison Gredick, who last year appeared in nationals.
Of course, adding all of these sports won’t be as simple as making a quick decision. Sports teams provided by the school can cost significant amounts of money, and there is a clear risk that there won’t be enough students who join the team. Additionally the additional teams would need to have competitors. Irvington could decide to put a team in place, but with no one to play against, the team would be useless.
However, providing for students with different areas of the sports world allows them to express their unique skills and talent.
