The bad side of vacation

by Lauren Mulkern

When you decide to play for a high school sport, you have decided to make a large commitment to the coaches, team, and sport. This commitment is even greater if you play for a Varsity sport.
I am a junior in high school and I have participated in seven seasons of Varsity play. I am currently participating in my eighth which is softball. April Vacation always falls in the middle of this season. The past two years, I have not even thought about going away during this week because I am aware that games will be played during it.
However, this year Pembroke High School offered a trip to Spain during this week. I could not give this up. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I couldn’t bring myself to give it up.
When I thought about how this would affect my softball team, I figured I would miss a maximum of two games and would not have to sit. This is because in the past, people have not had to sit when they went on school sponsored trips.
I realize why I would have to sit and respect that decision.
What I don’t understand is why we have games during vacation. The school realizes we need a break to relax and unwind. However, the athletes do not get a break and have to suffer consequences when participating in school events.
I think that games should not be scheduled over vacation. Therefore, athletes can still relax and enjoy some time off. Also, coaches should be consistent on the consequences that the athletes will face.
Hopefully this situation will be solved for future athletes who have to make the decision whether or not they should go on vacation.