As the lights dimmed, Archer’s JV volleyball team integrated their favorite TikTok trends into their final practice. With ring lights and glow sticks in hand, laughter filled the court as they played for the last time this year.
The team’s final season practice took place Friday, Oct. 11, at Actyve Gym. This method of playing volleyball became a popular trend on TikTok recently, which inspired the theme of their final practice. Freshman Sasha Gutrecht said she enjoyed incorporating ideas from TikTok into their practice.
“I think it’s important because it’s cool to see things online and then see them come to life at your school, or just have activities other schools are going through as well,” Gutrecht said. “Then, you can connect not only with Archer students but with people outside of school.”
The varsity and JV volleyball teams combined their last practice. Freshman Arissa Lalani said she rarely gets to play with varsity players, so this final practice was a great opportunity to connect with them.
“It was a nice conclusion to the year because it was tying JV and varsity together as one big community,” Lalani said. “We originally thought just varsity was going to do it, but when they said JV could join, we were all really happy with that.”
According to the American Psychological Association, in some ways, social media, in some ways, can benefit teens’ social well-being. One of the most popular platforms, TikTok, is used by 61% of teens. Lalani said social media is an integral part of her social life and daily routine.
“Social media is a platform that we’re constantly on,” Lalani said.” “I feel like incorporating it into our athletic practices would possibly make it more fun and maybe [provide motivation] for people to attend practices.”
The team season record was 4-9. Their season ended Thursday, Oct. 10, with a 2-0 loss against The Crossroads School. Gutrecht said taking a more casual approach to their last practice was a break from their usual structured practices.
“It was a good commemoration of the whole season especially because a lot of the practices and the tryouts were very strict,” Gutrecht said. “It was nice to have a new experience, and it was just really a fun time.”
Gutrecht said their final practice represented the team’s triumphs this season. She said throughout the highlights and disappointments they experienced throughout the season, the team has maintained a strong bond.
“[Friday’s practice] helped my communication skills, and it made everyone laugh,” Gutrect said. “It was really funny because when you miss the ball, there are good moments, good inside jokes with your friends, and it just bonded the whole team.”
Freshman Zoe Stewert said the season was exciting, filled with energy, even in the face of several losses. She said the camaraderie between the players is what made the season so memorable.
“We lost together, and we won together,” Stewert said. “Either way, we are just going to have fun.”
