One factor that comes along with being in high school is the amounts of stress students go through daily. Some students deal with this stress only in the classroom environment where as for other students the stress overcomes them during their sporting events. And sometimes even both.

As most people know going through four years of high school brings on plenty of stress because in those four years it is expected for students to make lasting impressions for themselves and strive for greatness academically.

Senior Heather Visco, who is a four year softball player and captain for Hammonton High school has always had the same routine for coping with her stress before each game.

“I personally cope with stress before a softball game by putting my head phones on and blasting music so I can get in the zone”, she stated.

Fellow senior Brandon Alfonso, who also plays a spring sport, deals with stress similar to the way Visco does.

“Before a big game I cope with the pressure and stress I have by just getting in the mood and blocking everyone out around me that is not being positive,” he said.

The stress for students also seems to follow many students in the classroom. Senior Chris Huster, always has the same mindset before taking a big exam so that he can get the best grade possible.

“Before a big test in any class I just get myself focused on what exactly it is that I am being tested on and I go in with a “go with the flow” mindset”, he stated.

Guidance counselor , Ms. Speziali gave some advice for students who have to cope with stress on a regular basis.

“The best advice I could give students to cope with stress would be to always be prepared whether its for a game or a big test and to just take a deep breathe in”, she said.