Teagan Scott ’26 (left) looks to pass the ball up-court to Tko Westbrook ’26 (right) in a game where South Salem High School hosted West Salem High School. Photo taken by Mac Childers
As the winter draws near, there is a sense of excitement at South Salem High School in anticipation of the upcoming winter sports season. From the adrenaline-pumping dives in the pool to the intense showdowns on the wrestling mat, Saxon athletes are all set to shine. To add to the excitement, this year sees the introduction of a new club sport: skiing and snowboarding.
The basketball courts are abuzz with enthusiasm as the men’s team gears up for tryouts; scheduled on November 13th and 14th. Freshmen will be hitting the courts from 4-6 p.m., while all other students will be showcasing their skills from 6-8 p.m. South’s basketball program has a long history of competitiveness and excellence with multiple past championship wins. For the Lady Saxons this includes back-to-back titles in 2015-2016 when now WNBA player Evina Westbrook, attended South. With the guidance of dedicated coaches, their players are ready to make their mark.
The cheerleaders at South play a vital role in the winter sports season, bringing energy and spirit to every basketball game. Unlike some other sports, there are no winter tryouts for the cheer team, as their season runs throughout the fall and winter sports seasons. Tryouts for each cheer season are held in the months March and April. Nevertheless, they will be there to rally for all basketball teams, junior varsity teams inculded.
This winter season, South is to introduce a new club sport; skiing and snowboarding. Students will have the chance to hit the slopes and showcase their skills. Although it is not officially recognized by South and the OSAA, it promises to be a positive addition to South’s winter sports lineup.
South is all set for an intense wrestling season, with both the men’s and women’s wrestling teams gearing up for competition. Recently, the OSAA recognized women’s wrestling as an officially sanctioned sport, separate from men’s wrestling. The 2023-2024 year will be the inaugural season for the women.
As the winter sports season kicks off at South Salem High School, athletes and fans alike are eagerly looking forward to a season filled with competition, dedication, and school spirit. Whether students are cheering from the stands or participating on the various terrains, the quality of sports this winter season will be on par with previous seasons.
