The spring athletic season in Northern New England is not for the faint of heart. Rain, snow, wind, black flies, mosquitos, and other challenges abound, but the perseverance of our grounds crew, coaches, athletes, and athletic department were on full display as we navigated the term and provided a memorable afternoon program experience for our students. The lessons our athletes learned through victory, defeat, and simply spending time in relationship with each other on the playing fields, courts, track, and roads this spring undoubtedly will last a lifetime. 

Proctor's girls varsity tennis team put an exclamation point on a tremendous season with an absolutely stunning performance at the Lakes Region Tournament Saturday afternoon. In 90 degree heat, this group of girls pulled together to win #1 singles, #2 singles, and #2 doubles, while finishing runner up in #1 doubles. Never has a team had such a dominating performance in Lakes Region tournament play. 

After two years without league races, Proctor's cycling team is back in action this spring with a full race schedule, dedicated riders, and beautiful terrain to ride. Coaches Drew Donaldson, Derek Nussbaum Wagler, Kristen Farrell, and Allie Clarke '16 have inspired this year's team to not only push themselves on daily rides, but to work together during races to see the true collaborative nature of the sport. 

As snow melt fills local rivers each spring, Proctor's whitewater slalom kayaking team loads up the trailer, hops on the bus, and chases the rapids wherever the water is running. With good water levels throughout the region this year, coaches Corby Leith 92 and Gordon Bassett '96 lead their group of intrepid paddlers into the fray each afternoon. 

On my way to the library in the twilight hour earlier this week, I passed a group of students outside the back of Rulon-Miller Dorm in the dark sitting in Adirondack chairs just chilling and chatting. They were senior boys getting their wings, deciding what evening study hall will now look like for them as they transition to Senior Projects, last rites of the school year, and what post-graduation might hold as they begin to chart their own courses.

As spring sports get underway on campus, we reflect on the winter athletic season and the tireless efforts of coaches, athletic trainers, athletic staff, ski area crew, hockey rink staff, and students, the winter athletic season requires a remarkable amount of energy and commitment.  We define success by many measures at Proctor, and while the scoreboard was not always in our favor, keeping our eyes set on the lessons taught and relationships developed through sport reminds us why we commit the time, energy, and resources to our athletic programs. Thank you to everyone that made the winter season happen, and to the staff at the Proctor Broadcasting Network for working tirelessly to provide livestreams of all home athletic contests! 

Proctor Academy alumni are no strangers to the Olympic Games. Five Proctor alums have competed in the Olympics, with many others directly involved in the Games through leadership and support roles. During this winter’s Beijing Olympics, three Proctor alumni were directly involved in supporting the United States' efforts. 

The quietness around campus signals Spring Break has officially begun, but for more than 100 students coaches, the academic break is the perfect time to take advantage of training trips and competition. With groups traveling throughout the country and staying close to home train, the spring athletic season will be off to a great start. Check out a preview of each of the trips below.