Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

Giving back to the community through service and reputation is a key element in the growth and maturity of athletes at Spring Woods High School (SWHS) in Spring Branch ISD.

Student-athletes from every sport on campus have engaged in community service within the past year, and more projects are planned.

From supporting the school’s Woods Goods food bank to greeting young students in carpool lines at nearby elementary schools, participating in reading programs, organizing toy drives and more, the teams build unity through service while learning the importance of giving back.

“The Spring Woods community and SWHS campus are not independent of each other,” said Andrew Rohrs, head football coach and campus athletic director.

“We are intertwined, and it’s one of the things that makes us unique and special. Teaching our student-athletes the importance of their community and creating opportunities to give back is vital for our future success. A growth mindset and selflessness taught through community service help us bring about positive change—one student-athlete at a time.”

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Bonding Experiences

Teammates find their athletic performances, communication and self-confidence are enhanced by the unity formed through service projects.

Shaden Watts, a senior cross-country runner, sees community service as a way to work together toward a common goal.

“I believe community service activities build team unity by allowing us to work together and accomplish a goal that helps the community,” he said. “It encourages us to communicate effectively as a team, strengthening our already-built bond.”

Cross-country teammate Frank Miranda said service activities set a positive example for fellow students and allow athletes to make connections beyond their sport.

“It's important for athletes to be active in the community because it encourages others to give back,” said Miranda. “It shows that not only are these athletes dedicated to their sport, but they’re also involved with the community and making a positive impact.”

Football player Jack Lefleur added: “Doing community service has taught me how to be a better leader and how to work with my team. When things go wrong, we figure it out together.”

Senior volleyball player Adrianna Castro said service also demonstrates leadership and enhances the school’s reputation as a positive place to learn and grow.

“Learning to control myself and be positive no matter what is going on are traits I have gained,” said Castro. “Hopefully, with community service, we are giving others something to look up to or look forward to.”

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Impactful moments

Marcus Olivera, a senior cross-country athlete, noted his sport is individual in nature, but teamwork appears when everyone is working hard to improve. Wrapping presents for children last year with teammates was a highlight.

“The best part about giving the kids their toys was wrapping them together with the team,” he said. “It connected us because we took our own personal time to do something right. It was a lot of fun.”

One of Lefleur’s favorite service moments came during a visit to an elementary school, where the team opened car doors during morning drop-off.

“One of my teammates opened a door and the little kid just ran and gave him a big hug,” Lefleur said. “This moment stands out to me because I know it means so much to the little kids seeing us there. We are like superheroes to them. Seeing them react like that is the best.”

Watts recalled a Tully Stadium cleanup project that showcased teammates’ strengths in unexpected ways.

“I believe this brought out sides of everyone we don’t always see during practice,” he said. “Also, it was great to help out the custodians, making their job a little easier, even if it was just for one day.”

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Growing leaders, impacting the community

Coach Rohrs emphasized the importance of service and leadership development. This past summer, he hosted training for athletes as well as band, cheer and dance team members. Additional sessions are planned for this school year, and Rohrs is building a Student Leadership Council.

“Developing the whole child is a fundamental process in Spring Branch ISD,” Rohrs said.

“We believe developing leadership qualities in our student-athletes helps prepare them to have prosperous lives and impact their future communities in a positive way.”

The athletes said they recognize the skills learned through sports and service will serve them well beyond graduation.

“Becoming more open to people and developing leadership will help me have the confidence to go out in the world and create relationships I otherwise wouldn't have felt comfortable doing,” said Castro.

Miranda said he has learned the leadership traits of communication, honesty, respect and trust as a cross-country athlete.

“These traits will help me in the future when I work with other teams, individuals or organizations,” he said.

Watts also appreciates the opportunities to grow through collaboration.

“Being able to work in a group is important for things like college and the workplace,” said Watts. “These skills give me a sense of responsibility and will hopefully help me navigate future challenges and opportunities.”

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Making a difference

The SWHS coaching staff remains committed to providing leadership and service opportunities for athletes. These efforts support the Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Graduate—aspirations that guide the work of every staff and community member in SBISD.

“It is truly special to see the difference our students make when they are given a voice to impact their school and community,” Rohrs said.

“Removing a perceived ceiling allows student-athletes to accomplish things they may have never dreamed of doing. It creates an environment where they continue to push their limits each and every day.”

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LEARN MORE:

Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate