We Are Warriors

Volleyball and Basketball Games

Last week, the Warriors volleyball team played its second-to-last home game. They played a team outside the National Christian College Athletic Association. The Warriors faced some stern competition, but they also continued pushing throughout the entire game. After every rally, the team would come together and encourage each other. Teammates helped each other up after each dive. Smiles abounded. The bench stood on the sideline and motivated those on the court with team cheers. The game ended with a loss of three sets to none, but the Warriors held their heads high.  

Jovanna Maldonado, a second-year volleyball player, said, “Although it’s a little discouraging playing against someone not in our league, I think we are a way better team than we were at the beginning of the year. We can use this game to further learn skills and just have fun as a team and bond as we get to the end of the season.” 

The men’s basketball team played its first away game last week as well. It was an exhibition game, so they knew going into the game that the opposing team would be a lot better than them. They walked out onto the court ready to put their best foot forward. As the first minutes flew by, it was evident that the opposing team's skill level would lead to a loss for the Warriors. Our men didn’t get upset with each other when someone made a mistake or the opposing team’s fans taunted them from the stands. They didn’t fall to their level and lose their heads. They ended the game with a prayer and pizza. 

Yann Birasa, a senior on the men’s basketball team, commented the day before the game, “Even though tomorrow is going to be a paid game, we might lose by a lot, but at the end of the day, we’re still going to play with heart, and I know my team is going to play as hard as possible.”

It’s the little things. A pat on the back. An extended hand. Encouragement from the bench. This is what separates Union. What we expect from our players is more than what is expected of the students and athletes at other schools. Even with the friction of competition, we strive to uphold Union’s core values. We aren’t just advocates for Union when we face off with other teams on the field or court. We are advocates for Christ. We strive to display His character in our actions. Checking on an injured player who may not be our teammate. Withholding comments of anger even when frustrated. This is who we are. Even if we aren’t known for winning the most games, we are known for taking our losses, learning, and becoming better, all while upholding our high standard. We aren’t like the other teams with athletes who have questionable sportsmanship. No, we are Warriors. 

By: Sami Hoffer