MMM Storm Report

The student athletes at Mother Margaret Mary High School are learning the value of flexibility, dedication and resiliency in a different fashion this season.  

Due to some initial construction issues the five year old gym had to undergo renovations this season to repair the damage and make the floor safe for daily use again.  Unfortunately for the teams that means a two month hiatus from home games, practices and any use of the gym at all.  

The teams that are most affected by the renovations are the Varsity volleyball teams.  This is where the generosity of others has come in handy.  Other local schools have offered their assistance and practice  space.  Archbishop Joseph Macneil, St Mary’s, Monsignor William Irwin, St John Paul XXIII and the Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre have all been locations used to house MMM’s 6 Volleyball teams this season so far.  For a relatively new athletics program this has been a big test of the dedication of the athletes and coaches involved.

“The resiliency of all staff and students has been shown through the combined record of our teams so far,” says new Athletic Director Nathan Gilborn.  “Although it is still early in the season, the preparation and commitment to improving our program has shown success.  Three of our varsity volleyball teams started of the season with wins, all the while knowing they may only have a home game by finishing as a high seed for playoffs. We are excited at the challenge and are looking forward to packing our gym for the first home opener.”

Things are about to get very busy at MMM as the grade 9 students, unique among most high schools in Edmonton,  are required to play in their own league separate from Metro.  During the first few weeks of October there are Cross Country Zones, Grade 9 Cross Country, 4 Varsity Volleyball teams, Grade 9 Boys and Girls Volleyball and Grade 9 Boys and Girls Soccer, which unlike High School soccer is scheduled for a fall season.  The only sport not being represented currently is football, but a few students make their way to Holy Trinity everyday to compete in that sport also.

The Athletic Director also spoke about the challenges students face with the busy schedule. “It makes for a busy startup.  Our students are exposed to a lot of different activities for the entirety of September and October.  It teaches them a lot about commitment, dedication and time management right off the bat.”