Four hundred and nine students, not quite half of the school population, participated in fall sports. Most students can find an area to fit in through sports, whether it be an activity pursued by many, such as soccer or basketball, or a less conventional sport, such as hockey and racquetball. However, there is another differentiation to be made between the two: the latter two sports are not school sponsored.

“The difference between school and non-school sponsored sports are that the non-school sponsored sports do not receive funding of any kind from the school. This is because the Missouri State High School Activities Association, or MSHAA, does not sanction these sports. Only three sports are non-school sponsored: racquetball, hockey and boys lacrosse,” Activities Director Brian Kessler said.

Of these three sports, two of their seasons are starting up: hockey and racquetball. Sophomore Nick Balestra has played hockey since he was five. This season is his tenth playing the sport.

“I’m really passionate about hockey since I’ve been playing since I was young. I think that I’m pretty good at it. I play as a forward and score a bunch of goals for our team,” Balestra said.

The team is getting a new coach, Shawn Egan, who has more experience than their previous coach.

“I’m excited about the season because I can’t wait to see what the new coach will do. Also, we had a lot of seniors leave the team last year, so I want to see how we can pull together as a team and dominate the competition. I’m a pretty competitive person, and we’re going to be good this year,” Balestra said.

Racquetball also begins in the winter. Varsity player senior Chris Smith is planning to place at Nationals.

“We make it to Nationals every year, but this year I hope to place. We got second last year, and I want to place this year also. I love the competitive atmosphere and the quick pace of the game,” Smith said.

Although they are not school sponsored, the team still has traditions they uphold.

“In anticipation of Nationals, all the guys shave their heads every year. It sure makes us stand out! Also, we go out to dinner after every match,” Smith said.

Although the teams are not school sponsored, they still represent Parkway West.

“Because hockey isn’t school sponsored, I feel like we don’t get the same respect as other sports, like our accomplishments aren’t as big of a deal. And I know we don’t get as much support as other sports do. I wish that would change,” Balestra said.