Marlborough athletes have been participating in preseason training to improve their athletic performance and strengthen their team’s relationships. Several sports, including soccer and lacrosse, have gradually extended their preseason schedule to have a more successful season.
For lacrosse and soccer, preseason practices are open to anyone interested in trying out for the team. They allow athletes to gauge the commitment level required for each team while also allowing returning players to stay committed year-round. Preseason practices are especially important for lacrosse since the team is coming off a Division 1 CIF win in the 2024 season.
Many athletes share a positive view of preseason and say that it helps them be in their best possible shape for the actual season. For Varsity soccer player Mia Morgan ’27, preseason has offered a new opportunity to rebuild her strength after she tore her meniscus last season.
“Starting your preseason over the summer helps to ingrain habits into your everyday life and sets a standard for how you’re going to play over the course of the year,” Morgan said.
In the 2023 season, Marlborough did not offer a formal soccer preseason, but this year’s early start has noticeably enhanced the players’ skill levels and strengthened the bond between teamates.
Morgan said that preseason habits, like stretching after practice and participating in strength-based workouts, greatly improve her game.
Preseason also establishes a culture of commitment and mutual respect within competitive teams.
“Showing up to preseason shows that you are committed and aware of which other players want to be dedicated as well,” Morgan said.
Varsity lacrosse player Enna Corley ’27 noted the same trend. Corley said preseason builds relationships and camaraderie with new and existing players and coaches, which is crucial for a successful team.
“Preseason has affected our team so much because we’re going through these really hard workouts together and end up growing a sort of sisterhood,” Corley said.
Corley’s enthusiasm for preseason also comes from her excitement that, as the lacrosse season approaches, these early practices spark greater interest in the sport and hone the skill level of already dedicated players.
“It’s a good mix of players, and attendance only grows as the year goes on,” Corley said.
