Work hard, play harder

Seeley-Swan High School's sports teams are gearing up for volleyball and football seasons. The teams have ambitious goals this year, and the coaches and captains anticipate a successful season.

Head coaches Jacob Haley for football and Janelle Greenwood for volleyball are relatively new to their positions and have devoted a significant amount of time to their teams and players. Their dedication, wisdom and energy have provided these athletes with new skills and new ways to shine.

Football

Haley is determined to lead the Blackhawks football team to the playoffs and secure a winning record.

"Coaching is like dancing," Haley said. "If something feels off, make adjustments. I'm hoping we are good dancers this year."

Haley's dedication extends to providing the players with resources to refine their techniques and elevate their skills on the field by opening the gym for them and providing feedback. His love and passion for the sport not only fuel his mentorship but allows him to make well-considered decisions on plays and team dynamics.

Following a previous season marked by a three-win and six-loss record, the team has been relentless in their efforts, devoting extra time to strength training in the weight room and fostering camaraderie to progress together.

Team captain Tyler Haines, a senior, shares the same objectives as his coach and is determined to make the playoffs and win the state championship.

Throughout his four years in high school, Haines has played football and serves as a running back and outside linebacker. During his freshman year, Haines suffered a leg injury and was unable to play the rest of the season. He continued to attend games and learn from his older teammates. Haines made a comeback, which is evident every Friday night on the field.

Haines' confidence in his team is heartfelt. For underclassmen and future Blackhawks, he emphasized the importance of perseverance and enjoying high school sports because time passes quickly.

Seth Dunster, who is also a team captain and a senior, works hard to motivate the boys and push them to become better. Dunster plays safety, quarterback and wide receiver and has been playing football each year in school.

"We've spent countless hours in the weight room, gaining weight and knowledge," Dunster said.

Dunster made it a point to show up for the team, whether that was lifting late with the boys or helping to fundraise money. The team is family to him.

The Seeley-Swan football team lost three seniors last season after they graduated. However, the team has multiple talented juniors and sophomores who are eager to fill the void left by their predecessors. These young players have dedicated themselves to intense preparations for the upcoming season, driven by the collective goal of restoring Seeley-Swan's football team to its former glory.

Despite the daunting challenges that lie ahead, the team is united in its efforts to forge a season that will be remembered for its triumphs and successes.

Volleyball

The anticipation is visible within the women's volleyball team as they gear up for a season filled with promise and potential. Coach Janelle Greenwood is shooting for the stars.

"The expectations will be high and may seem out of reach in the beginning, but there will be steps to ensure everyone has the chance to become the best they can," Greenwood said.

Not only is Greenwood's belief in her team inspiring, but her care and affection for her players shines through as she dedicates time to nurture their skills both on and off the court.

Last season, the volleyball team was relatively young, with only one senior player. However, as they approach the new season, the team now has three seniors, accompanied by a group of talented juniors and sophomores.

Greenwood's coaching philosophy centers around fostering a positive mindset, igniting a competitive drive and nurturing a pursuit of excellence within her players. Her focus on accountability and responsibility ensures that each player is committed to fulfilling their roles and maximizing their potential. The anticipation and hopefulness surrounding the team's summer practices reflect the players' determination to translate their hard work into success on the court.

Rilyn Richardson, a senior outside hitter and defensive specialist, has been playing volleyball all four years of high school. Richardson and a few other girls participated in camps this summer to gain extra experience before the season starts.

"I think something that will make us better this year is our relationship with each other and everyone's skills are getting better as we move through our summer practices," Richardson said.

Richardson emphasized the importance of the team's camaraderie, explaining that maintaining a level of kindness and respect benefits them both on and off the court. Richardson is a hard worker and excels on the court, and her passion for the sport is evident every time she plays.

Senior setter Aubrey Matthew has displayed an exceptional level of skill and talent that is hard to find. She instills confidence in her teammates and continuously motivates them to improve. In addition to diligently earning her position and team's respect, Matthew also actively participates in community service and represents her high school to the Missoula County School Board.

"The disappointment from the final loss of last season has motivated me to put in extra work and preparation for this upcoming season to improve and have a greater outcome this year," Matthew said.

The football and volleyball teams have completed rigorous training and are eager to showcase their skills. The senior members of these teams are determined to end their final season with a series of victories, hoping to leave behind an unforgettable legacy.