Athletics Director Cabuzio reports record growth in winter sports participation and achievements

During the recent Freetown-Lakeville School Committee meeting, the athletics department provided an enthusiastic update on the fall and winter sports seasons, highlighting significant achievements and participation growth among student athletes. Athletic Director Mr. Cabuzio reported that the fall season saw 282 students participating across nine sports and 17 teams, with six out of eight teams advancing to postseason play. Notably, the girls' soccer and volleyball teams reached the Division 2 quarterfinals for the first time in years, while golfer Ian Fickert qualified for the Division 2 individual state finals.

The winter season has also shown promising participation, with 200 student athletes engaged in eight sports and 12 teams, marking an increase from previous years. This growth is attributed in part to a new cooperative wrestling program with Middleborough High School, which allows students to compete in a sport that was previously unavailable to them. The partnership has proven beneficial for both schools, as Middleborough needed additional wrestlers, and Freetown-Lakeville students now have the opportunity to participate without incurring extra costs.

Cabuzio emphasized the success of the indoor track program, which has seen a surge in participation, leading to the girls' team winning the conference championship for the first time in 16 years. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the lack of an indoor track facility, showcasing the dedication and talent of the athletes. The foundation for this success appears to stem from a middle school cross-country program initiated two years ago, which has encouraged younger students to pursue running.

In addition to athletic achievements, the meeting addressed the implementation of baseline concussion testing for students in grades 8 through 12. This initiative, integrated with wellness programs, allows students to undergo important testing at no cost, thanks to a partnership with Brockton Hospital. This proactive approach to student health underscores the district's commitment to athlete safety and well-being.

Overall, the meeting highlighted a successful period for Freetown-Lakeville athletics, with strong participation rates and commendable achievements across various sports. The committee looks forward to continuing these positive trends and exploring further opportunities for student engagement in athletics.