High school students are put up to a new challenge academically to get smarter each day they come to school. Here in Eleanor Roosevelt High School, with a rigorous academic atmosphere and lively athletic space, Juniors Dione Wells and Joseph Newman share their experiences as student-athletes and the challenges that they have faced while balancing school and sports.
Junior Dione “Deuce” Wells has been a student-athlete here at Roosevelt since his freshman year. Wells is #3 on the ERHS Varsity Basketball Team. He learned how to balance school and being an athlete by “focusing on my work and turning it in on time.” He created good relationships with his peers and teachers and was never afraid to ask for help, even attending tutoring if needed. Wells also advised underclassmen and rising freshmen: “Don’t let anyone influence your actions, but always do what is right. Most importantly, treat others with kindness and it will bring new connections and make the most of every moment.”
Junior Joseph Newman is a two-sport student-athlete at ERHS who excels in both varsity football and track. As these sports are seasonal and take place at different times during the school year, Newman can focus on one sport at a time. He explains, “Both sports provide me with opportunities to complete my work and contribute to the team, whether it’s during study hall or after practice.” The Raiders football team had a successful regular season, finishing with a record of 10-3. Newman shared, “During the season, I bring the same mentality to my sport as I do to my studies.” His coach and teammates were incredibly supportive during challenging times, especially when he struggled with multitasking.
