It is no surprise that sports are one of the most popular extracurricular events here at ISB. Panther spirit is like no other. However, a question that I have is how do sports shape friendships here at ISB? I decided to act on this curiosity and asked some of our very own season one athletes to give their input on team culture and friendship within sports at ISB.
“I just love how our team is pretty much one big friend group,” says Titi, a senior and a key player for the boys varsity volleyball team this year. For Titi, it’s the bond he shares with his teammates beyond the court. Whether they’re joking around or just spending time together, the team’s chemistry is something Titi values. “That’s what makes our team special,” he says. Friendship from sports isn’t just limited to practices or games. Titi says that they have lunches and dinners and bond together off campus. “We have team bonding often,” Titi shares. Sports since freshman year have helped Titi build friendships with many teammates. Titi shares that the sports team has allowed him to become friends with many people from different grades. “It’s a strong, supportive community that means a lot to me,” he explains.
(Titi S., Photo by Lara G.)
Yongen is a junior and part of the girls’ varsity cross-country team. For Yongen sports at ISB aren’t necessarily where friendships begin, but often where those friendships grow deeper. Yongen shared how running and working out with teammates has helped make her stronger over time. “It hasn’t really shaped my friendships, but certain friendships have gotten a lot stronger through participating in sports together.” For Yongen, cross country isn’t just about running—it’s about growing alongside her teammates. “We go for long runs on weekends, and I also go to the gym once or twice a week with a few teammates,” she adds. Through these shared experiences, Yongen feels her friendships have deepened over time, as every mile run together strengthens both their endurance and their connection. “I love how everyone is incredibly supportive and humble,” and people are willing to interact with different members,” she says.
(Yongen Z., Photo by Lara G.)
Shani is a junior in ISB and plays for the varsity soccer team. He says, “For me, football and playing with the people that you love is everything.” A varsity soccer player, he explains that the bond with his teammates goes beyond the field. “Every time I step on the pitch with that team, they know they’ve got my back, and I’ve got theirs,” Shani says. Shani has been a part of the varsity soccer and basketball team since freshman year and it is obvious that it has helped him build a good group of friends here at ISB.
(Shani R., Photo by Lara G.)
These season one athletes’ quotes and the obvious panther spirit here at ISB really showcase the amazing team culture and panther community. It is amazing to be a part of a community like this and it is incredible how many friendships and relationships stem from sports at ISB.
