With the basketball season coming shortly, the start of the season has been controversially discussed on when it should start and if it even should. Student athlete Taylor talked about questions and concerns he had with the upcoming season and how Covid-19 will change it. Taylor also detailed how Covid-19 has changed him personally. 

When asked about the effects of Covid-19 on an athlete and as a student he stated, “Covid definitely has made my drive and work ethic decrease because everything now feels optional instead of mandatory.” Taylor also stated that Covid has acted as a significant downside for an athlete. “Not being able to go to school and have a proper gym to play in or organized practices to go to makes it very difficult.” The reality of the season remains unsure. 

It should also be noted that in a study conducted by the University of Maryland’s Medical Center that athletes such as Taylor are the most harmed by the pandemic. “High school kids are impacted in a multitude of ways; they are undergoing hormonal changes and use sports as a way to help reduce stress and control anxiety and depression,” said Kyle Yost in the study.

Additionally, sports are a way to earn college scholarships “so there can be increased pressure,” stated Yost. His statement can be seen as an explanation for athletes’ decreasing work ethic. Most athletes like Taylor will still try to improve themselves. When asked about his off-season training, Taylor explained in detail how he has been “weight lifting for around 4 months” and completes weekly conditioning assignments. Although the chances of the season starting on time are slim, it is safe to say that the athletes partaking in them are still well prepared for what may unfold.