Student-athletes at the Mill have been on a roll this winter season, with students such as senior Jabea Ewane becoming a three-time county wrestling champion and five track and field students qualifying for the state-level competition. These achievements can be credited to the rigorous training and resources allocated towards their sport…or can they?
There is no doubt that these students put their blood, sweat, and tears into mastering their art and performing to the best of their abilities, but what is showcased isn’t truly the extent of their talent as disparities in athletic funding continue to bar students from achieving their highest potential.
Student leaders from WMHS’s student spirit club, The Mill, took to Instagram on January 11 to express concerns about the school’s lack of transparency regarding athletic funding allocation. The club stated, “Despite having talented students and dedicated athletes, the lack of proper support and resources is holding everyone back,” referring to student-athletes not seeing funds being invested into equipment or uniforms.
Junior Mark Aghadiuno, an athlete and student leader of The Mill, claims that the school’s athletic teams lack certain necessities that limit the student athlete’s abilities to improve on their sport, such as the lack of hurdles and coaches for the outdoor track team. As of January 16, Aghadiuno said, “[The indoor track and field team] has one coach for [about] 60 people. [This] is pushing us back. [We] have to teach ourselves how to get better at our sport without the [aid] of a coach; he is only one person.”
The indoor track and field team saw many victories this year at both their regional and state meets, but this does not mean those victories were a result of the resources they were given: it was their perseverance. A large part of growth and development comes from learning from peers, but it’s only a matter of time before that development hits a brick wall. Development cannot be made when both parties are equally as lost.
Additionally, one coach should not be responsible for overseeing 40+ students. This hinders the coach and the students. This large responsibility for a single person could lead the coach to burnout and may limit athletes’ ability to get the attention they need—or the chance to grow.
Junior Camila Pupo, an athlete and a student leader of The Mill, expressed that her safety as the long jumper for the school’s track team feels compromised because the long jump pit the athletes use during practice is broken and has not been replaced.
Properly funding athletics will allow students to practice their sport safely. Students should not have to jeopardize their well-being to follow their passion, especially if the catalyst of that danger is something that can be invested into to prevent it from occurring.
WMHS’ student athlete’s concerns are just one example of the challenges many student-athletes face across the county due to a lack of investment in sports programs. Though MCPS’ operating budget has already been sent to the county, it’s not too late to make your concerns heard by emailing the board of education or testifying directly before the County Council members.
