Sports

7A State Runners Up!

Congratulations to the Lady Indians Softball for coming in 2nd this year's state tournament. We're proud of you!

Volleyball

By Junior Staff Writer Chloie Chambers

September 2023

Our EC Girls Volleyball teams have been volleying up a storm this season. Get ready to serve up some volleyball knowledge so you'll be ready to cheer them on! In this article, we'll dive into the exciting world of spikes, digs, and teamwork on the court.

Where Did Volleyball Originate?

Volleyball first originated in Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA. In 1895, William G. Morgan blended elements of basketball, baseball, tennis, and handball to create a game for his classes of businessmen that would demand less physical contact with a basketball. He then created the game volleyball, but at that time, it was called "mignonette."

The role of communication in successful Volleyball teams

Communication plays a big role in volleyball for multiple reasons. If you have a warm-up preference or feel as if a play should be changed, then speak up. It's for your and your team's good. Even if it's something small, your teammates can't ever help if they don't know what's going on. Always ask questions like, who goes for the middle ball? How does your partner want to be addressed when they are down? Do they want encouragement, stern or gentle? What is your partner like at practice vs. real life? Do you want to call the ball? All these questions can help your team be much more successful. Always be clear and direct; don't waste time on explaining. Tell your teammates what they need. This will help you perform your best as a team. Tell your team where you are and where you want them to be.

How To Stay Motivated and Overcome Challenges

Staying motivated and overcoming challenges is essential and easy if you try! To stay motivated, you can always write down your goals, stick to your schedule, and remind yourself of what led you to set your goals in the first place. Keep your hopes up, and never put your head down on facing challenges. Motivation is how much you want the goal, what you will gain, what you will lose from not achieving your goal, and lastly, your personal expectations. How you can overcome the situation is all about trying. You can always make a plan; you don't always know what will happen, but you can always plan ahead. Know you're not alone. Every person in this world has their low points also. Always ask for help in situations you may think you cannot overcome. Feel your feelings. Accept support from trustworthy people. Help others and think big. Always have a positive attitude and mindset. Encourage yourself to set both short-term and long-term goals and stay focused and determined. Even when faced with difficult obstacles. Focus on your love for volleyball and the excitement of improving your skills. Celebrate small victories along the way. Surround yourself with positive, supportive teammates who push you to be your best. Remember to stay resilient and maintain a growth mindset. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and use them to fuel your determination.

Improving Your Skills in Volleyball

In order to improve your skills in volleyball, you can work on your footwork, agility, and body control. Focus on movements like shuffling, jumping, and quick changes in direction. You can also practice setting against a wall or work on your hand-eye coordination by playing catch with a partner. Practice your serving technique by setting up a target and aiming for it. Work on your passing and setting skills by practicing against a wall or with a friend (Like catch, as said before). Improve your ball control by doing ball-handling drills such as juggling and dribbling the volleyball. Remember to keep practicing and keep challenging yourself.

Now check out EC's Volleyball schedule and get to a match!

Messi's Move:

Transforming the Magic City's Soccer Landscape

By Sports Editor Jihwan Park

September 2023

In a sensational turn of events, soccer legend Lionel Messi has made a groundbreaking move to Inter Miami CF, and the ripple effects of this transfer are already reshaping the future of Major League Soccer (MLS). The 36-year-old Argentine superstar, often referred to as the greatest footballer of all time, completed his transfer to Inter Miami on July 15th, 2023, in what has been described as a historic moment for both the club and the league. Messi's signing comes just weeks after the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he spent the previous two seasons after leaving Barcelona. Inter Miami's owner, David Beckham, played a pivotal role in luring Messi to the Magic City. The former England captain and soccer icon had been pursuing Messi for several years, and his persistence finally paid off. Beckham's vision for the team and the allure of Miami's vibrant culture and lifestyle proved too tempting for the football legend to resist.

The impact of Messi's arrival on Inter Miami and MLS as a whole cannot be overstated. Here are some key ways in which this transfer is already changing the game:

1. Global Attention: Messi's signing has catapulted MLS into the global spotlight. The league has long sought recognition and respect on par with Europe's top divisions, and Messi's presence brings unprecedented attention and credibility. Inter Miami's games are now must-watch events for football fans worldwide.

2. Increased Attendance: Inter Miami has already seen a surge in ticket sales and attendance. The addition of Messi to the roster has made their home games a hot commodity, with fans eager to witness the legend in action.

3. Youth Development: Messi's influence extends beyond the pitch. His experience and mentorship are invaluable for the development of young talents within the Inter Miami squad. Rising stars have a unique opportunity to learn from one of the game's all-time greats.

4. Sponsorships and Revenue: Messi's arrival has led to a spike in sponsorship deals and merchandise sales for Inter Miami. The club is expected to generate substantial revenue, which can be reinvested in strengthening the team and expanding the brand.

5. Increased Competition: Other MLS teams are now under pressure to make marquee signings of their own to compete with Inter Miami. This could lead to a talent influx in the league, ultimately raising the overall quality of play.

6. MLS as a Retirement Destination: Messi's transfer also challenges the perception of MLS as a retirement league. While the league has attracted aging European stars in the past, Messi is joining at the peak of his career, indicating that MLS can be a destination for elite players in their prime.

7. Community Engagement: Messi's presence in Miami has sparked excitement and engagement within the local community. The city has a significant Latin American population, and Messi's roots in Argentina resonate strongly with many residents.

8. Champions: With Messi on board, Inter Miami has set its sights on winning the Leagues Cup. While they faced stiff competition from well-established teams, the magic of Messi's playmaking abilities was an X-factor for their recent run. As a result, Inter Miami ended up winning the Leagues Cup.

While Messi's transfer to Inter Miami is a game-changer for the club and MLS, it also represents a new chapter in the storied career of a player who has consistently defied expectations and rewritten the record books. As the world watches to see how Messi's journey unfolds in the Magic City, one thing is clear: Inter Miami and MLS are now part of a new era in global football, with Lionel Messi leading the way.

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