By: Sid Raghunath

   With a new school year underway, fall sports are returning to MRHS, bringing revamped energy, an excited student section, and eager athletes full of determination for a season of victory and fun. Athletes and teams are not the only ones hyped for the season, as the student section is thrilled to attend games with their friends and cheer the Ridge on.

    “As a freshman, this is going to be my first time at one of these games. I’ve heard they’re fun, and I’m excited to go with my friends,” freshman Hrishikesh Raghunath said.

   MRHS sporting events are more than just games or performances. Beyond the competitive aspect, these games serve as an event where students get an opportunity to meet new people, spend time with friends, make new memories, and, for new students, identify themselves with the school. For many, the excitement comes not only from cheering on the Mustangs but also from being a part of the crowd and sharing the energy in the bleachers. Energy on the field, on the other hand, comes from hunger to win and make all the effort from the off-season and practices worth it.

    “We worked hard in the summer and continue to work hard in practices to win as many games as we can,” senior wide receiver Cooper Ellis stated.

   Coach Holzman and the MRHS Football team have been working hard to attain a winning season. So far, with an undefeated record in scrimmages, they aim to carry that energy into the regular season. The student-athletes make this work as they continue to build a strong team dynamic, having played together for most of their football careers, and put forth their best effort in practices, hoping to translate it into the game. The MRHS athletes are always driven to be the best team they can be. 

   As the football team continues its efforts under roaring crowds, the MRHS Golf team has been making quiet strides on its route to success.

    “Our team is driven by living up to the teams in the past because we’ve won many state and county championships for so long, so, as a team, we push ourselves to be as good as them,” senior golfer Zach Skinner said.

   The MRHS Golf team is determined to live up to the hype they have had in the past. With a successful track record, including both standout individual and team achievements, Mustang golfers have consistently set the bar high. This year’s golf players are driven to continue the legacy on the course and focus on sharpening their swings and minds. 

   A team’s mentality may be vital, but it is nothing without a sense of unity.

    “As a team, we all make sure we are on the same page with everything, so as a team we are always in sync, in unison, and perform best for our school,” senior and MRHS Poms captain Ariana Stephens said. 

   The MRHS Poms display outstanding performances during pep rallies, football games, and other events. The constant performances require constant dedication and communication. The Poms team builds bonds, not just to strengthen their performances, but also to create an environment where each member holds each other accountable and pushes each other to improve. Their chemistry on the sideline brings energy to the crowd and showcases the teamwork behind every performance. 

   Team building and chemistry are common themes throughout MRHS athletics. 

    “We’re a team with great chemistry and potential because we have players from all grades, and we try to connect as much as possible,” senior midfielder Grace Kang explained. 

   This connection on the pitch not only helps players play off each other efficiently, but also allows younger athletes to boost their potential and learn, promising a brighter future for MRHS Girls Soccer. With different players of different ages, the dynamic Girls Soccer team benefits from experience, growth, adaptability, and stronger teamwork, which will help them win and have a successful season this fall.

   As the devoted MRHS athletes aim for victory, the teams and students focus on building unity through hard work and support. Fall sports start the school year off with competition, community, and school spirit, from the football being played on the field to the cheering students in the stands.