As the Head of Athletics, Marina King has assumed more roles than one. As a close friend to Harriet the Hawk, Marina divulged the perks of her position, as well as what motivates her to be an athlete.
What motivated you to run for the position of Head of Athletics last year?
Athletics has always been important in my life. I’ve been participating on Hewitt’s sports teams since 6th grade, when I first started on the Track & Field team. I decided to run for Head of Athletics because I wanted to represent something I loved and to promote sports and encourage people to get involved at Hewitt.
- Marina King steals the spotlight in a recent basketball game. Source: Anna Calungcagin
How have you instilled school spirit in Hewitt and the athletic programs?
First, I have worked with Coach Calungcagin and Student Council President Maria Sabater to create a spirit game for one sport in each season. This past fall, we put up posters around the school encouraging students to come out to the soccer spirit game. We had a great turn out, with the bleachers filled with fans–even Harriet the Hawk showed up to support the team!
Secondly, I keep the school updated with each sports game that is coming up in the week. I post signs in the halls with the location and date of the games and also announce them to the Upper School during Town Meeting.
Lastly, I help to organize the two sports awards ceremonies that are held for the fall and winter/spring season sports teams.
How do you encourage your team to stay motivated, despite the score of a game?
I think team support is essential. When on a sports team, each player needs to encourage and guide her teammates. Creating these types of bonds allow for a successful team. I also believe it’s important to have a coach that can inspire, advise, and encourage the athletes to give their all; whether it’s on the court or the field, in a game or in practice. All of these things are necessary to create a “winning” team.
What teams are you involved in?
I started on track & field in 6th grade, and then started playing on the basketball and soccer teams since 7th grade. I have been playing all three since, and this year I’m on the Varsity teams.
Which sport is your favorite and why?
Basketball my favorite sport. I have had a passion for basketball since I was very young. I love the competitive aspect of it and the freedom a player has on the court to create different situations and opportunities. I also like the aspect of being on a small team, because you get to know the other players really well and learn to work together as a cohesive unit.
What piece of advice would you give to the next Head of Athletics?
I would tell the next Head of Athletics that they should know that to be elected to this position is an honor. I would also tell them to continue to try to increase school spirit and make sure that the Hewitt community is always aware of how the teams are doing and know how they can support them.
For the rest of my term as Head of Athletics, I hope the continue to encourage Hewitt’s athletes and persuade them to take control of the talent they each possess.
Do you plan to continue to be involved in athletics later in life? After college?
Yes. I hope to continue to play basketball in my college career. Even after college I will try to participate on some sort of sports club; athletics will always be a part of my life.