By Staff Writer Jennifer Fortman

In the final seconds of the game, the usual players and starters close it out and bring home the usual win. However, there are only five people on the court, and seven people are on the bench. Other than a few substitutes, some kids rarely have the chance to play.

NNHS junior Matt Brown knows how this feels.

“I know that next year I will get my shot,” Brown said. “I understand that they are seniors so they have priority.”

Just about every athlete has had that game or season where they won’t get to see the field as much as they had hoped. They’ll be the substitutes who barely get to play with the team; they’ll be the kids who get stuck on the bench.Whether or not they will admit it, almost all athletes have been in this position. And whether or not they will accept it, these athletes have nothing to be ashamed of. While they may not be on the field, they still actively contribute to the team.

Brown understands the importance of his role on the team. Even though he is not playing as much as his teammates, he still helps them improve.

“I make everyone better in practice and continue to work hard, which builds the team chemistry and makes the team better,” Brown said.

Players who often sit on the bench are just like starters when it comes to practice. They still perform all the same drills and run the same plays, and they stil condition just as hard.

Though the difference between them and the starters ultimately does come down to talent, NNHS baseball coach Carl Hunckler believes the experience that the benchwarmers gain is invaluable in the long run.

“You want to see them participate and see them have success. But unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out where everyone has an equal time because this is still a competitive sport. That’s the reality, and it’s a learning experience,” Hunckler said. “The experience can help athletes out in the long run because there is a direct correlation with experience and success.”

Although one person might not be playing as much as the next, it doesn’t mean they aren’t a vital member of the team.

When all is said and done, a team needs more than talent. Chemistry off the field lend itself to effective chemistry during a game. Without the bonds forged during practices, the team won’t play nearly as well together.

And when the time comes, today’s benchwarmers will have their chance in the limelight.

“My goals started out smaller, but now they are getting bigger,” Brown said. “My confidence has been building even though I haven’t been playing. I want to play start next year on varsity.”