By Airwaves writer Emma White
My high school, Severn School, has a strong sailing tradition. The school once served as the prep school for the US Naval academy. Our mascot is an Admiral. Former Severn sailors populate the top college programs. So, defining success last season for Severn seemed easy. But, by the end of the season, we measured success in a new way. Our team learned that the definition of success is not always clear. Instead, it varies for every person, every situation, and every team.
We started last fall without our two most talented team members, who graduated last May. Once our team was established, we set our sights on our vision of success: qualifying for Mallory and Baker Nationals.
But, the beginning of the spring season brought a new challenge. We experienced some “team drama” that tested individual relationships and undermined our ability to think as a team. By mediating an express-all-your-feelings conversation with the entire team, our coaches swiftly managed the situation and reunited our team spirit. In a quick turnaround after overcoming the drama, we won the first regatta of the season: MDISA Fleet Race Championship. This regatta was sailed at Washington College over the course of two rainy days. Despite the dismal weather, Severn was focussed and united. Our starting sailors, Nick Floyd and Evan Morgan (A division skipper and crew) and Grace Lucas and me (B division skipper and crew) performed consistently. On the water and ashore, the team was as corinthian as our team Mascot. The Washington College assistant coach,Tom Pierson, was so impressed with our conduct he invited us back to practice with the team.
Next, with spirits still high from the fleet racing qualifiers, Severn arrived to the MDISA Team Race Championship with confidence. At this qualifier we achieved third place, losing to Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School — two older and very talented teams.
Recognizing that we still needed extra work and progress to qualify for nationals, the team worked harder. We helped each other rig and de-rig to maximize efficiency and time on the water. We speed tested. We conversed after every drill reviewing what worked and what did not work. We had the right attitude and spirits as both MASSA qualifiers approached.
But, the MASSA Fleet Race Championship unexpectedly unraveled for our determined team. By repeating mistakes, falling out of the groove too often, and lacking mental resilience, Severn placed fifth and did not qualify for Mallory Nationals. Our morale sank, especially the seniors’ who would not have another chance to make Mallory.
Despite our discouragement, Severn’s three coaches helped the team recoup and channel disappointment into motivation to qualify for Baker Nationals. Practice hours were extended. More classroom chalk talks occurred during the school day. Guest sailors joined our practices. Everyone worked harder than ever before. All hands were on deck, excuse the pun, as we trained for MASSA Team Race Championship. All we cared about was qualifying for Baker.
When the regatta finally arrived the team was excited to get on the water and prove our skill. Severn’s Admirals sailed valiantly until the end, but yet again, we were confronted with a devastating result. It seemed unfair that after all the hard work and every team member’s dedication, we did not reach our goal — we accepted a third place plaque, but did not qualify for Baker Nationals.
With the season behind us, and our graduating seniors soon to join some great college teams, we have had time to reflect on the season. Yes, sailing in nationals would have been an incredible achievement and great experience. But, over the course of the year, the Severn Sailing team grew and succeeded in other ways, and I could not be happier to be part of such a great family. All of our Admiral teammates are better sailors because we learned we could overcome difficult challenges. Now, we are a tightly knit group. We have become better teammates and better competitors. And, appreciate the importance hard work and dedication. Next year, Severn School will be more motivated than ever — so other teams in the area: Look out!
In the end, Severn achieved success this year, though not in the form we expected or hoped. We rose to challenges and grew as sailors, competitors, teammates, and people.
Walt Disney once said: All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles, all my obstacles, have strengthened me… You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”
While no one needed a trip to the dentist this season, Walt Disney’s words are right on. The Severn sailing team ended the season stronger and with more team spirit than when we started. And that is clearly success!
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