I’m not a psychologist, but I have spent my career with teenagers. Let’s be honest. I’m thrilled that we were able to successfully reopen our school after a 5-month hiatus. I’m thrilled because it means so much for students and teachers to have in-person connection and community. That’s how God wired us.
But like I said, let’s be honest. It’s tough wearing masks all day long, but we’ll do whatever it takes to be in-person and on-campus. I especially feel for our student-athletes. If you’re a parent of one, acknowledge there’s a loss. I was just looking on the athletic calendar and it still showed a Girls Volleyball game today against Gilpin County and a Football scrimmage on Friday. It’s okay for our students and parents to be mad and sad, maybe both at the same time. I’m ticked we’re not playing in that volleyball game and scrimmage.
During this COVID era, I’ve often thought back to my Psych 101 and Kubler-Ross’s Grief Cycle – denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. If our Saints are experiencing some anger and depression, it’s normal (as I believe there is some grieving taking place), and we at VCHS are here for them, regardless of where they’re at. As I was a 3-season athlete throughout high school, I especially empathize with our student-athletes as sports were a huge part of my teenage life.
On the up side, we’re working hard with Eagle County Public Health to launch some type of after-school intramural sports program. We want to offer opportunities for our students to exercise and have fun. You should be hearing more from Coach Pierson about these opportunities soon.
So yes, we’re incredibly excited to have our Saints back in school. Our relaunch has been a huge success. Our boys golf and tennis teams are competing with great results and accomplishments. At the same time, let’s make sure we listen well to our teens and acknowledge that this will most likely be a very different school year. Let’s balance the ‘can do spirit’ making the 20-21 school year the very best it can possibly be, but at the same time have empathy with our Saints who are experiencing a year like no other in their lifetimes.
Warm Regards,
Steve O'Neil
