SMA bocce team ready to roll into another season
How do you top a season where you introduce a new sports team, put together an undefeated season, and bring home a state championship? That challenge awaits the St. Marys Area High School unified bocce ball team this season.
The team is once again under the direction of head coach Samantha Gearhart, and she remarked that she is excited for opportunities to continue to grow the program. This includes adding a few more matches to the team’s regular season and hosting more events in the school and community.
Gearhart acknowledged that it will be hard to top the success that the team enjoyed last year in their inaugural season.
“Last year was incredible,” Gearhart said. “It was our inaugural season, and the bocce team was able to have an undefeated season. They advanced through league and regional championships, and brought home the PIAA state title. Our team was fortunate to have support from the school district and community. This year, we are hoping to continue to build on that, and, hopefully, defend our state title.”
The team lost three members of its eight-person roster to graduation, with the other five – Gianna Surra, Kara Hanslovan, Giovanni Saraceno, Wyatt Saline, and Patrick Blessel – all returning this season.
“I’m excited to see how they will pass along strategy from their experience last season,” Gearhart said. “Although we had an extremely successful season last year, I look forward to this team learning more about the sport and continuing to grow.”
Joining the team this year to fill the vacant roster spots are Avery Eckels, Andrew Field, and Nolan Beimel.
Gearhart shared that her team cannot wait to get back out onto the court.
“These players had the unique experience of playing bocce ball with Governor Shapiro at his residence over the summer. They also incorporated bocce into their physical education course. They have worked to grow interest in the unified sports by holding a school assembly. Some members of the team even attended a youth summit at Smethport High School. There, these student leaders collaborated and planned for whole-school engagement and club activities that will promote inclusive opportunities within the school community. Now, we are looking forward to playing competitive bocce again this winter season,” Gearhart said.
Leading up to their season, the members of the team have created both personal and team goals, and Gearhart remarked that she hopes to see them accomplish these goals.
“Beyond the athletic skills, I hope the sport contributes to character development and growth. I aim to see qualities of resilience, humility, and a strong work ethic develop over the course of the season. Teamwork and cohesion are also a priority,” Gearhart said. “Most importantly, I hope these student athletes have fun. I know that I have been looking forward to this season.”
As for her team’s biggest strengths, Gearhart cited their team chemistry and collaboration, along with true partnership and inclusion.
“We have a wellbalanced roster,” Gearhart said. “I think they will be able to adapt to different playing conditions, opponents, and game situations. I also anticipate effective communication and excellent sportsmanship. Although practices are just starting, I can already see a team dynamic that fosters inclusion and respect.”
In terms of challenges, Gearhart cited the desire to have an impact beyond simply winning matches on the court.
“Success in unified sports goes beyond winning games,” Gearhart said. “I believe our team made a positive impact on the individuals and community last school year, but we want to continue to grow in this area and sustain long-term engagement.”
With their season about to get underway, Gearhart encouraged community members to come support the team and see what the sport is all about.
“Our team truly appreciates the community’s support. Come watch us roll,” Gearhart said. “At our home events, we offer a ‘Spectator’s Guide to Bocce’ if you are unfamiliar with the sport. We will have a student section, cheerleaders, and concessions. It is such a fun atmosphere with memorable moments. Plus, our student athletes thrive off of the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd. Unified bocce ball is a great sport for building community.”
Assisting Gearhart this season are volunteer assistant Dr. Mollie Anzinger, volunteer and official Dr. Harley Ramsey, and official Mrs. Chrissy Kuhar.