At Parkway South, student-athletes take on a unique challenge—balancing schoolwork, practices, and competitions.
Whether it’s early morning weightlifting, late-night studying, or game-day pressure, these athletes learn valuable skills that extend beyond the field. However, they aren’t the only kids with busy schedules at Parkway South. Fine arts, clubs, and academics fill the lives of students, as well. Collectively, their stories highlight the perseverance found across the entire student body.
For senior Sam Duncan, a three-sport athlete and captain of the football team, time management is key. Between football, basketball, and track, his schedule is packed, but he embraces the challenge. However, he said balancing multiple sports comes with its challenges. In addition to football, Duncan plays basketball and will play lacrosse in the sprint after three years of running track.
“Keeping your body healthy and not getting injured. Stretching and taking care of your body all year round is hard sometimes,” Duncan said.
Through his experience, Duncan has learned the importance of perseverance.
“Being able to take adversity and not quit or back down just when something is physically or mentally hard,” says Duncan.
Similarly, senior Mayson Bachelier, a three-year varsity soccer player who also competes on the varsity golf team, has learned the value of discipline and preparation.
“Time management. I try and plan out my homework schedule for the week based on what days I have games or matches. Like for example, if I know I have a bunch of homework due on Wednesday but I have a game Tuesday night, I know I won’t want to do the homework after the game so I have to do the homework really early on Monday night,” Bachelier said.
Her ability to plan ahead and manage time is a skill she believes will help her well beyond high school. However, Bachelier also acknowledges the importance of students involved in extracurriculars outside of sports.
“I think it’s just as important. I think being a part of anything is something. You can definitely learn teamwork and cooperation in all different kinds of things, not just sports,” Bachelier said.
Not all students at Parkway South find their passion in athletics, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t putting in the same level of dedication. Freshman Casey Andert spends his free time exploring interests like video games and 3D printing. While he enjoys his hobbies, balancing them with school can be challenging.
“I sometimes have a lot of homework and have to spend most of my free time working instead of what I would prefer to do,” Andert said.
However, his passion for 3D printing has helped him develop valuable skills.
“I have learned how to design things to print, which might help me if I go into that kind of career,” Andert said.
Just like student-athletes refine their abilities through sports, students like Andert dedicate time to their own unique pursuits, demonstrating that hard work and growth happen in many different ways at Parkway South.
For freshman Tommy Horejes, balancing multiple sports is both exciting and demanding. Competing in soccer, basketball, and baseball, he has already experienced the challenges of year-round athletics.
“Just the effect of all of the sports wears on your body, making you really sore,” Horejes said.
Despite the physical toll, he understands that success in sports comes down to more than just skill.
“Without leadership and teamwork, you will not have a successful team,” said Horejes
His commitment extends beyond the field, recognizing the importance of academics as well.
School and grades are the number one priority. Get all of your work done—that will help you a lot,” he said.
Like many student-athletes, Horejes is learning how to juggle his responsibilities, proving that dedication and time management are key to excelling both in the classroom and in competition.
Parkway South football and baseball coach John Barnabee understands the challenges that student-athletes face.
“Balancing academics and athletics is crucial. I encourage my players to prioritize time management and establish clear routines. We stress the importance of using any study hall or Aclab time and emphasize communication with teachers to manage workload effectively,” Barnabee said.
He also recognizes the demands coaching places on teachers.
“For coaches teaching in season, it can be difficult to find time to do it all. Preparing lessons, grading, preparing practice plans, additional equipment needs, technology—it all begins to add up,” he said.
Beyond sports, Barnabee emphasizes the importance of mindset.
“Control what you can control. Whether it’s in sports, school, or life, you can’t always control the outcome, but you can control your attitude, effort, and response to challenges,” he said.
Barnabee also acknowledges that athletics aren’t for everyone.
“Not everyone is drawn to sports, and that’s perfectly fine. Individuals need to pursue activities they are passionate about. Non-sporting activities can provide similar benefits, such as teamwork and personal growth, contributing positively to overall development. The goal is to get involved,” he said.
