This article was originally published in Kaleidoscope‘s April 2025 print edition. It is being published as a separate online article now for easy access.
The Ward Melville spring sports season has officially begun. Student-athletes are now competing in lacrosse, badminton, flag football, softball, baseball, track and field, tennis and golf. With all teams already deep into practices and games, this season is shaping to be promising in action and competition.
Boys lacrosse is expecting a strong season. With practices year-round and a minicamp leading into the spring, the team is going into the season with high intensity. “Every year, the goal is to win counties then move on to states. I think this group is special and we definitely have a chance to make those goals a reality,” captain Callan McLaughlin shared, optimistic about going far this year. The team is particularly looking forward to facing long-time rival Northport, a matchup that always brings competitive energy.
The boys baseball team is entering the season with renewed energy and a drive to bounce back after a challenging season last year. With a strong bond between players, many of whom have known each other for years, there’s excitement about returning to the field. “There’s nothing better than playing the sport I love with people I’ve grown up with,” said captain Jason Stiles, reflecting the tight-knit bond within the team. Practicing six days a week, the team is focusing on game-like situations and live pitching to prepare.
Rather than relying on power alone, the team’s strength lies in baseball intelligence, small ball tactics and smart decision-making. They are determined to compete with the leading teams in their division and bring their best effort to every game. The team is confident that this season will be one of success and that they will emerge with a strong sense of unity and determination.
As a three-peat county champion, the girls badminton team is going into the season with confidence. Their goals include winning a fourth consecutive county title and finally clinching a Long Island championship. This year’s tryouts drew a record number of students. According to senior Katie Specht, what sets the team apart is their balance between work and play. She said, “At badminton, we can make funny videos for Instagram and eat snacks, but also dedicate ourselves to improving all in the same practice.”
Practices are deliberate and intentional, focusing on consistency, awareness of opponents’ strengths and weaknesses and refining skills through playing different people on the team. The team is also placing more value on doubles play, aiming to build depth and strength across the roster. With experienced leadership and an influx of new players, the badminton team is set for another memorable season.
With the spring sports season in full swing, each team is bringing its best to the field. From the lacrosse team’s county title aspirations to the baseball team’s focus on redemption, there is no shortage of passion and determination across the board. As the athletes continue to train and compete with strong leadership and clear goals, it’s safe to say this spring is looking up for Ward Melville.
