Happy New (School) Year, Cougars! We are almost four weeks into our new school year, and we are so excited! Not only do we have a new building and a new principal but also some new freshmen! Needless to say, a new school year can be stressful, but it can also be so much fun, and we can make the most of all the opportunities offered here at Apex High School. There is something for everyone here, whether it’s along the line of clubs that help our community or more on the athletic side. The effects of trying new things can really blow your mind, so let’s see what that feeling is all about.

Do you love being competitive or being a part of an inseparable team? Well, maybe you should try out to be on one of Apex High’s many sports teams. We offer a variety of sports for both men and women. If you are still doubtful about bringing your athletic abilities to our fields, maybe Megan Goodwin, a junior here at Apex, will change your mind. Megan is a dedicated softball player, and when asked how she got started in Apex High softball, she said, “There was a shortage my freshman year and one of my friends that were on the team convinced me to try it out.” If this hadn’t happened, Meg never would have found her love for softball, and now two years later, she still plays and has a blast being apart of the team.

Maybe a sport isn’t your forte; don’t give up because there are so many other ways to get involved. There are over forty clubs that you can choose from, and for some, it’s never too late to join. Our clubs can range anywhere from community service, improving your academics, just having fun with your friends, or expressing yourself. Whether you are an introvert, an extrovert, or right in between, there is a club for you. 

As your parents may say, “High School isn’t all fun and games you know,” and they’re right. Although you may be apart of a sports team or in a club, academics should be your main priority. If you are one of those people who never enjoyed classes, maybe try to make some friends with the people you sit with or have a tight bond with your teachers. You can even create a study group to make learning more fun. Getting good grades makes your chances that much higher of getting into a good college and getting out with a degree to follow your dreams!

To wrap it up, I hope you have found an idea of what you can do to make your year that much better. Maybe it’s time to take an airport out and try connecting with your fellow peers.