Pray, Play, Slay!!

     As the 2024 fall season kicks off, Houghton University’s athletics gear up with renewed focus and energy. They review the season and unite three core strategies aimed at making this season their best yet.

     “This season shapes up to be an exciting and transformative period for the Highlanders.” Deanna Hand, Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Internal Operations mentions that they work hard to build on past successes and strive for excellence both on and off the field. She reflected on the season so far, saying that women's soccer and women's volleyball are doing particularly well compared to last year.

     According to Natalie Milne, a senior and captain of women's soccer, the team’s attitude has contributed to “the strong and special performance this year.” She says the key is to set a clear goal of making the playoffs as a team and to communicate with each other. She inspires and motivates the team as a captain through her play and attitude.

     Women's volleyball senior Natalie Rivera comments about the new coach, Danielle Heffernan. “She is really determined to win and brings a positive attitude to the team. She is helping us create a positive team environment that will be long lasting for many years to come.” The positive impact of the new coach builds the women’s volleyball team's strong performance, 5-0 conference games so far.

     Through interviews with Deanna Hand, Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Internal Operations, she has developed three strategies to enhance the fall season.

     The first one is support for athletes. The Highlanders are committed to the physical and mental health of athletes and their academic success.

     Athletic trainer Austin Walden supports athletes physically and emotionally. He employs an open-door policy in the training room so that athletes feel free to visit him whenever they have a problem. He also shares information about athletes to support their athletics and academics both the athletics department and the Center for Student Success.

     As a second strategy, the Highlanders focus on deepening their spiritual connection with Jesus Christ this season. They emphasize the importance of faith in both their sports and personal lives.

     Women’s field hockey senior Ava Kramp works closely with the team to incorporate faith-based activities for athletes. Said Kramp, “We believe that sports provide a powerful venue to practice our faith and honor Christ through competition and interaction with others.”

     Deanna Hand, Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Internal Operations mentions that athletes can participate in prayer meetings, Bible studies, and other spiritual development opportunities which help athletes grow in their faith in Christ as they pursue success in their sport.

     The last strategy promotes students’ interest in athletics. Deanna Hand presents three methods. The first is to incorporate disc golf and cheerleading into the athletics. She believes that these two teams make it easier for students who have never played sports before or want to try something new to get involved in the athletic department.

     The second is to connect athletes and students by holding intramurals regularly. Intramurals are held several times each semester, with many non-athletes participating each year.

     The third is social media advertising. Every sports team in Houghton has an Instagram account, which is updated almost daily. This showcases game and player information and increases game crowds.

     In these ways, the Highlanders bring more attention to the athletic department and their cheers inspire many athletes. In the words of Milne, a senior in women's soccer, “Cheering gives us strength,” and their support is an inspiration to many athletes.

     With the 2024 fall season in full swing, Houghton athletics are laser-focused on creating an impactful and transformative season. By prioritizing three powerful strategies, the Highlanders are setting the stage for unprecedented success. This holistic approach not only drives athletic excellence but also fosters personal and spiritual growth in every athlete.

     As they strive for victory, they are inspiring a larger community to rally behind them, creating a unified Houghton athletics family, dedicated to greatness on every front. According to Rivera, a women's volleyball senior, “The success of the Highlanders requires the support of people, come to the games and see us further evolve!”