Being part of a team can teach valuable lessons to our children. The challenge is finding the right sport for the individual. The fishing team at Mount Paran Christian School offers one more opportunity for students to thrive in a competitive arena.
The fishing program was started just two years ago within the athletics department, but already the trophies are piling up.
Senior Mason McCoy and sophomore Carter Koza are two leaders on the fishing team. They’ve been featured on the Outdoor Channel, where they shared their fishing skills and knowledge with high school students in Maryland.
During the summer, both students placed at state competition, which qualified them for the Bassmaster High School Nationals. They finished in the top third out of 340 teams.
Mason believes he has become a better leader due to his participation with the team. He mentors students not only in fishing, but also with their life skills.
Coach Donna McCoy describes the competitions as family events, adding that Mason’s 93-year-old grandmother attended on her birthday to be part of the festivities.
The events usually involve travel, so families make weekend plans to camp or find accommodations nearby.
There is a great deal of skill involved in fishing, and many of the athletes spend long hours perfecting their abilities. There is also the mental aspect.
Many colleges now offer fishing scholarships, and Mason already has received an offer.
Due to interest by so many students, a middle school team is being added this school year.
Jennifer Bonn is a teacher at Mount Paran Christian School.
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