Game Time in Winter: The Heart of Leonia Athletics
Game Time in Winter: The Heart of Leonia Athletics
Winter sports are heating up at Leonia High School, and the excitement is hard to miss! This season, we’re diving into the heart of the action by interviewing the team captains from basketball, wrestling, swimming, and bowling. Through their stories, I’ll uncover not just what makes these athletes shine, but also how they lead their teams to success. Stay tuned to discover why these captains believe winter sports are more than just competition–they’re a source of pride and unity for our school.
Swimming: Chasing Championships
Renee Kim, 25′, shared her excitement about the high-stakes meets at the end of the season. “They are usually more intense, fun, and competitive and get the team moving!” she said. For Renee and her team, the biggest goal this year is clear; winning states after last year’s heartbreaking three-point loss in the final round. While the girls’ swim team remains undefeated in their league, the boys’ team faces a fierce rivalry with Rutherford.
“The training can be tough,” Renee admitted, “but the best part of it is the fact that I’m with my friends.” She stays motivated by remembering, “there’s gonna be an end at some point and that it’s just another day closer to spring and summer.”
For Sophie Dahiya, also a senior swimmer, the Bergen County Meet of Champions (BMOC) is the highlight of the winter season.
“It always has a great atmosphere and motivates me to swim fast,” Sophie said. “It’s also fun to see people I know from club swimming and race against them, this time for our school.” Like Renee, Sophie has her sights set on winning the state sectional title after coming just two points shy last year. With a team strengthened by new swimmers, she’s optimistic about their chances. Sophie emphasized the importance of dryland training to build strength outside the pool, as well as the camaraderie of her teammates. “High school swimming helps keep me motivated as I love competing for our school and being with my friends,” she said.
Bowling: Striking for Success
On the bowling team, senior captain DoHwan Kim is ready to lead his teammates to a successful season.
“My biggest goal for the winter sports season is to crown our team as the league champions,” DoHwan explained. He highlighted Hawthorne High School as their toughest competition but remains confident.
“I believe we will perform better because of our strong players and team spirit.” For DoHwan, the simple act of bowling with teammates makes training enjoyable. To stay motivated, he turns to motivational videos, which help him focus and stay determined during the cold winter months.
Basketball: Building Dreams and Breaking Records
For Angelica Do, an 11th grade Girls Basketball captain, this season is all about setting big goals.
“My biggest goal during my basketball season this year is to reach 1000 points and overall do better than I did last year,” she shared. Beyond individual accomplishments, she’s focused on leading her team to success. “I’m looking forward to building our team this season, hopefully winning the league again and making the county and state tournaments.”
Angelica highlighted Paramus Catholic as one of their toughest competitors, noting that facing them early in the season will set the tone for the team’s performance. Her favorite part of practice? Shooting drills. “My personal favorite is the shooting drill where we go around the 3-pointer and shoot from each spot.”
Senior Boys Basketball Captain Matt Wilds echoed Angelica’s passion for the game. “Playing against Ridgefield, our school rivals, is an important league game. I can’t wait to play them at home and get a win,” he said, looking forward to January 10th. Like Angelica, Matt’s leadership stems from a desire to inspire his team to reach their goals.
“Our team’s biggest goal is to win our league and secure a home state game,” he emphasized. To stay motivated, Matt keeps the team focused on their long-term ambitions. “These goals drive all of us to improve and work harder every day.”
Wrestling: Strength, Strategy, and Teamwork
Senior Elijah Hernandez is looking forward to the wrestling season, especially “working out and staying in shape before hitting the mat.” His biggest goal this season is to “have a better win record than last year” and he cites Elmwood Park as the “toughest challenge this season.” Elijah’s favorite winter training drill is “live wrestling: you have your winter partner and you’re going full out for 2 minutes.” When asked how he stays motivated during the colder months, Elijah replied, “I just do it. No motivation needed”
A Season of Determination
Whether it’s basketball, swimming, or bowling, Leonia High School athletes are showing the resilience, skill, and dedication that make winter sports so special. From intense rivalries to long-term goals, these captains are proving why teamwork and determination are at the heart of every great season.