Passing the Torch, by Alex Winakor

For younger athletes, the pressure of living up to the talents of seniors has been described as "daunting" and "intimidating."  Reaching the levels of their older counterparts is something nearly all younger athletes strive for, and for the most part, achieve.  Problems arise when an incoming freshman believes that he or she is already at a superior level, when in reality, practice is needed. Rising to high school stardom is an ongoing experience perfected over the course of one's high school athletic career. This hard work feels real when the graduating seniors pass the torch and freshman, once frightened and fourteen, are seniors themselves.