Athletes experiencing some type of injury during their sports journey is common – for sophomore Harper Wintz, this one was her first major injury. 

“I fractured the lateral end of my femur when we played Bishop Carol (on March 25.) in the Titan Classic,” Wintz said. “I will be out for about three weeks.” 

The Titan Classic is a significant tournament the Panthers partake in where they placed sixth. 

Harper vastly impacted the Lady Panther’s finish since she scored two goals throughout the tournament and as a forward and winger. 

“My injury affects the team because I did start every game last year and I have so far this year,” Wintz said.

Due to her absence, her spot is being filled by some of the previous bench players, so her game sense will be a missed aspect of the Lady Panthers’ team until May 7.

“My role on the team last year was definitely to create chances to score,” Wintz said. 

Scoring goals while creating opportunities for her teammates to score is proof of her excellence; further, this motivates her to have a quick, easy recovery. 

To do this, Wintz states, “I’m going to recover by staying off of (the field), using crutches, and then slowly walking or jogging if I don’t feel pain.”

With the desire to return to the field, comes plenty of trials and tribulations. 

“One of the hardest things about coming back from an injury is the mental side because there is the fear of the injury returning,” Wintz said. 

Injuries while playing on the field can be traumatic, so mentality is an influential part of the game.

Moreover, sophomore Ethan Mbawuike, who is on the boys’ soccer team said, “After overcoming an injury, it’s crucial to play the sport you love without fear and have fun.” 

For Wintz, playing the sport she loves is a priority.

“It’s hard watching your team play on the sidelines because sometimes you might feel helpless not being able to contribute to the team,” Wintz said.

This is what drives her to perform at the highest level she can. 

“This year I’ve had to step up a little bit more because we lost some good seniors in our midfield,” Wintz said.