Managing a sports team may seem like a small job, but there is a lot of hard work and commitment to time going on behind the scenes. As overseers of the teams, they play a huge role in the success of the program. Managers are a key aspect in helping the program run smoothly and stay organized.
Managers don’t just fill up water bottles; there is a huge commitment outside of just showing up to the team’s games or competitions. “We have to be at every competition and a lot of them start really early at 6 am and we have to do all the behind-the-scenes of the costumes and makeup while also recording every dance and making sure the team’s ready for every competition,” junior dance manager KK Geherin said.
Managers will have different roles depending on what sport they choose to oversee. “We make sure the Instagram [is] all up to date such as getting important info about the games and who scored and what the starting lineups are,” junior girls hockey manager Ella Adams said.
Managers help with anything the coaches and players need to keep practices and games running smoothly. For every game or team event, the managers will be there. “Normally I ask the girls if they need their water bottles filled up and I fill them up for them. Also making sure that everyone has all of their gear and is fired up and ready to win,” Adams said.
Although managers may not be participating in the sport they are managing, they are still a really important part of the team. Also, many managers are good friends with players on the team.“All my friends play hockey, and I went to a lot of games last year to support my friends, and this year being an upperclassman, I’m taking a bigger step into the program, besides just being a fan,” Adams said.
Many people may be wondering: how do you become a manager? Do the coaches pick them? The players? “ I know a bunch of people on the team and you just have to apply to become a manager. Through the application process, I got close with coaches and now I’d say I have a good relationship with all the coaches,” Geherin said.
Managing is a bigger time commitment than many people may think. Managers don’t just show up at the game, they show up before the game, putting a lot of time and effort into organizing the locker room and helping the athletes prepare for their upcoming game. “On game days. I don’t really have time for school and like homework,” Adams said.