Coordination, balance, stamina, teamwork, and endurance are words that usually make people think of sports such as basketball, football, soccer, lacrosse, and hockey… not show choir and country line dancing. However, for a number of NK students, unusual sports can be a rigorous passion that involves all of those words and more.

Senior Rachel Johnson began show choir after being pressured by one of her friends to audition. For her audition, she was tested on how well she worked in large groups and the range of her voice.  “In show choir we do rapid dancing and singing for 20 minute long sets,” said Johnson. “It is really intense when you add choreography and singing because it requires perfect balance, coordination, and be completely in sync with the group. It is kind of like synchronized swimming.”

A popular trend among NK students is country line dancing at the Mishnock Barn in West Greenwich. Senior McKenna Horner has become a regular at the barn, after being introduced to it by friends seniors Alicia Southland and Jen Roth. “Country line dancing is vicarious because it is a lot of quick paced movements so you have to have good stamina,” said Horner. “It is a very welcoming atmosphere and provides an exciting way to work out without feeling like you are exercising.” The barn offers beginners classes for anyone who is interested can go with a parent on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, beginning at 7:30 pm.

Another way students spend time outside of school with sports is by interacting with animals. Senior Vivian Houseman has been horseback riding for 12 years, ever since her mother signed her up for lessons as a Christmas present. “It is one of the most expensive sports, but it is worth it because you form a connection and bond with the animal,” said Houseman. “It is different from other sports because you are working with an animal and you have to earn their trust. It can be frustrating and difficult at times to find the time, but forming a partnership that will last a lifetime is worth it.”

Another popular sport among students is skiing, which has found its way into NK through the new Ski Club. Although skiing has been popular for many ways, going back to the 1936 Olympics, skiing is not the only way to have fun at the slopes.  Snowboarding has just recently gained popularity, and was added to the Olympics in 1998. Sophomore Zachary Joly began snowboarding when he was just three years old in his backyard when his parents got him involved. Joly now snowboards about three times a week, and his favorite place to go is Sugarbush in Vermont. “I think snowboarding is a different sport because you rely on yourself to do well instead of relying on a team,” said Joly. “Snowboarding means a lot to me and I think other students should take part in it because its very fun, an entertaining hobby, and a great way to enjoy nature while exercising.” Students interested in snowboarding can get involved by taking lessons at local Yawgoo Valley or joining the NKHS Ski Club. “I think students should find ways to work out in different ways to not only help their body but also their mental health because it is something you are interested in.”