While Green Hope is known for its athletic success, not all sports receive the same support. As a school driven not only by its academic achievements but also by its dominance in athletics, Green Hope hosts a wide variety of sports, boasting over 23 school-sponsored programs. However, the Green Hope Hockey team is one of many that the school does not officially recognize. But how do these sports relate back to Green Hope, and how do these teams differ from those Green Hope sponsors?
The GH Falcon sat down with sophomore, Aidan Fielding (‘28), who has played hockey for four years and says the cost is a major barrier, “I think the reason Hockey is so hard to make a school sport is it’s pretty expensive and would cause lots of people to not try the sport.” Fielding also expressed how if the team were officially sponsored by the school, “I think if the team were official, a lot more people would know about it.”
Along with Fielding, Senior Samuel Combs (‘26) echoed similar concerns, noting the high cost of playing for the club team, “It’s just the cost of the place because it’s around five thousand dollars to be on the team.” Combs also stated how difficult trying out for the team is saying, “every year on Instagram they post a form, but for most people it is knowing people surrounding the team.”
Despite these challenges, Combs and Fielding both expressed the excitement this season has brought them as they look toward the playoffs. Both players express hope that increased awareness could lead to filled seats and eventually an official recognition from Green Hope. Until then, as Green Hope continues to grow alongside Wake County, Students and athletes hope club sports will gain recognition. For now, hockey players remain committed to their teams despite the financial and fan recognition challenges they face.
