While the days get shorter and temperatures are cooling down, Palatine High School’s winter sports are just heating up. From the court to the pool to the mats, the Pirates are ready to bring the energy this season.
The boys basketball team is heading into the season with senior guard Darrin Dick leading the way, and junior forward Brady May ready to step up with confidence and focus. After months of open gyms and practice, they’re ready to show what they’ve been working toward.
The girls basketball team has been working just as hard, returning with a solid lineup and leadership that’s hungry to compete. Their early practices have been about communication and bringing intensity to every game.
“The team is looking forward to competing since we have been placed in the higher bracket because our team last year had an outstanding performance,” junior Grace Kline said.
Competitive cheer is back, too, splitting time between cheering at games and preparing for competition season. New and returning athletes have been working on new stunts and routines that will definitely catch people’s attention.
The girls gymnastics team has been busy perfecting skills and polishing their routines, from floor to beam to vault.
“I think our goal this season is to be the best team we can be for each other and for ourselves,” senior gymnast Jolee Waddington said. “We want to work hard to earn what we want.”
Between hard practices and team bonding, they’re ready to take the floor with confidence.
In the pool, the boys’ swim and dive team has been training early and often. The Pirates are pushing themselves to hit faster times and bring energy and unity to every meet.
“My main focus for this year is to create an inclusive and united team,” team captain Colten Hilgers said. “I believe that fast times matter, but having a group of guys who support and push each other every practice is the most important aspect to have a successful season.”
Both boys’ and girls’ wrestling are back on the mats this winter. The programs have grown a lot in the past few years, and the wrestlers are focused on getting stronger and sharper as the season starts.
The girls’ bowling team is also ready to get rolling. They’ve built strong team chemistry and are hoping that consistency and focus will help them stack up wins this year.
“Im looking forward to creating a space where my teammates feel welcome and excited about bowling,” senior Malina Lindquist said.
It’s shaping up to be a full-throttle winter for Palatine athletics. With key players back, younger athletes stepping up, and coaches ready to push, the Pirates look ready to make their mark.
