At the recent school board meeting in June, Athletics Director Brad Shelton highlighted the positive impact of extracurricular activities on student performance and community engagement and presented the following high school athletic achievements for the 2022-23 school year.
The volleyball team reached three rounds in the playoffs, cross country had nine boys qualify for the regional meet and two advance to state, and water polo won multiple playoff matches in its first year as a UIL sport. Also qualifying for state were four tennis players, two track runners, a swimmer, and powerlifting athletes from both the girls and boys teams with the girls taking this highest number to state in program history.
Both the girls and boys basketball teams showcased their skills with the girls reaching two rounds in the playoffs. The boys team faced challenges due to an early injury but still demonstrated determination throughout the season. The football team continues to provide opportunities for athletes to compete at the next level, and despite challenges this season, the team shows promise with new coaching staff on board and a strong work ethic among players.
In soccer, both the girls and boys teams qualified for the playoffs for the first time since the 2018-2019 season, and the girls advanced to the third playoff round, which is the first time Midway has moved past the first round since 2015-2016. In addition, girls and boys golf finished their seasons as regional qualifiers and the baseball and softball teams also had successful seasons as district champions, with both teams reaching multiple rounds in the playoffs.
With 856 students participating in athletics this year, the passing rate of athletes stood at an impressive 96% demonstrating the positive impact of athletics on students' academic performance and overall engagement. Additionally, 70 student-athletes were named All-State while 77 received All-District and All-Academic honors and 18 signed letters of intent to colleges spanning seven states. The district's athletic programs also engaged in extensive community service, contributing over 1,600 service hours, including hosting the Challenger League, an event for children with disabilities.
The booster club also played a vital role in supporting the district's athletic programs by raising significant funds and awarding $25,000 in scholarships.
Looking ahead, Midway Athletics will continue to recruit and retain talented coaches and focus on enhancing the value of participation for all athletes to ensure meaningful engagement and continued involvement.
