Newton High School parents support their children in their athletic activities and hobbies by being in the crowd cheering their kids on or helping plan events for their kid’s teams.
Senior Violet Bartley points out that her parents help so much when it comes to supporting her gymnastics career. With her parents’ help and support, she feels less stressed and prepared for her meets.
“They come and watch me, they help me make sure I’m prepared for all my meetings by getting me snacks and helping with my laundry. They’re great and they also help plan locker room decorations and stuff for the meets. Also, stuff for the girls to make the meets more fun,” Violet said.
Violet’s mom, Deanna Bartley, makes sure to have the team and her kids prepared with snacks, support, and any extra supplies needed to help.
“I encourage them to do their best and have fun, spend time cheering them on, and financial support as well,” Deanna said. “As far as prepping, we supply snacks for the team and are prepared to travel.”
To stay involved in Violet’s athletic career, her parents have conversations with her about how practice is going and how she feels about the next meet.
¨They always ask me how practice was and how my meets went if they don’t go to them and they watch videos when I send them to them.¨Violet said. ¨They are always very happy for me after my meets and sometimes they buy me a sweet treat.¨
Senior Jackson Marlar is a right guard and defensive lineman for the NHS varsity football team. He enjoys having the support of his parents from the bleachers as it motivates him.
“They’re always super proud of me and congratulate me. It makes me happy that they stay involved,” Marlar said.
When asked, Jackson’s mom, Sarah Weeks, shares how she supports their kids’ athletic careers, she notes that she shows up to every game and often sends them to camps and events to improve their athletic skills.
“Making every attempt possible to be at their sporting events, no matter if they are going to get playing time or not. We have them participate in multiple sports so they are multifaceted athletes,” Weeks said.
Like Deanna, to prepare for games Sara likes to check in with her kids about practice and game plans, while during the games she yells very loud for her kids, represents Railer pride and even has a megaphone.
“We have conversations throughout the week about practice, game plan and the opportunities. We make sure we are decked out in black and gold Railer gear on game day, even at work,” Weeks said. “I am a loud clapper and yeller. I like the use of the yellow megaphone I received from the booster club to ‘encourage.'”
