The rise of COVID-19 has put a damper on many things, and the last school year for Fannin County High School (FCHS) seniors is no exception.
“The coronavirus has really hit me hard,” FCHS senior and soccer player Sydnie Jones said of how the pandemic has affected her. “This year, I was the captain of the soccer team. I have played soccer since I was five years old. This season was my last time to play the sport I love the most ... to see this taken away from me and so many other athletes is very heartbreaking.”
This was Jones’ last chance to play soccer on a school-level team as the college she will be attending does not offer sports.
“The coronavirus has greatly affected my senior year,” FCHS senior Amber York said. “Not only is it terrifying to watch my community scramble, our major events keep getting pushed for our safely. Our prom and honor cord ceremony has been moved. Our graduation has not been mentioned, but could be moved. It’s just really sad. I thought we had all this time left to be with our friends, but we didn’t and don’t.”
Next school year, York will be attending Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. None of her life-long friends will be accompanying her.
Of the positive the break from school has brought, York said, “With us away from school and social distancing, we are protecting our elders.”