Does pressure overwhelm young athletes?

Jared Jenkins speaks about coping: “try not to worry and trust myself”

Carson Swick, Assistant Editorials Editor

  When people think of high school athletes, many have similar pictures in mind--gifted and motivated individuals who bond and compete together at a high level. There’s no arguing the dedication a student must have to shine on the field and take care of personal responsibilities. Can all of the pressure get to them? Certainly. An athlete must be disciplined to avoid letting this pressure to succeed get to them.

  Football, the most popular sport at Freedom High School, is a sport in which young players are expected to perform under pressure. Last year, Freedom made a late surge before bowing down to Parkland in the district playoffs. It was a disappointing end to a terrific season for the Patriots.

  Fast forward a year, and the Patriots still have a talented team with high expectations. The new season brings new faces to the field and practice squad who prepare to live up to the expectations for success. Among all of the new players, no one has more reason to feel this pressure than sophomore quarterback Jared Jenkins.

  Jenkins spent last season as the backup to Joe Young, and he has made great strides in a short time. He was just named the starting quarterback this summer and began the season by leading Freedom to win against Allentown Central Catholic and William Allen. “I’ve had to work really hard and put in extra work to earn the respect of my teammates. I think I’m getting used to it,” said Jenkins.

  With his performances, Jared Jenkins has certainly proven that he is capable of playing such an important role. Although some would think he would be timid in his first few games, Jenkins has remained calm and relied on his experienced teammates to make plays. “My teammates have been great. They encourage me when I struggle and tell me to move onto the next play,” he said.

 High school athletes have more riding on them than perhaps any other athletes. In many cases, student athletes see schoolwork and part-time employment as distractions to their sport. But the student who is willing to work in practice with coaches and teammates shouldn’t be overwhelmed at all.

  Jared Jenkins’ attitude allows him to look forward to a bright future. His ability to handle high expectations at a young age is essential to his success. “When the pressure gets to me, I try not to worry and trust myself,” he said. Regardless of Freedom’s record this season, Jared Jenkins’ progress will surely be something to watch.