Snyder Junior High School’s athletics program is shining both on and off the field, with a strong focus on balancing academics and sports. Athletic Director and SHS Head Football Coach Anthony Gonzales recently shared the program's success and emphasized the importance of academic achievement for student-athletes. As part of this effort, Coach Gonzales asked all head coaches to report on the academic eligibility of their student-athletes after the first six-week grading period, highlighting the district's progress in developing well-rounded individuals.
This initiative aligns with Snyder ISD’s long-term goal of seeing Snyder High School finish in the top three of the Lone Star Cup, which measures success in athletics, fine arts, and academic UIL competitions. As Coach Gonzales noted, this journey begins at the junior high level.
Junior High Volleyball:
Total student-athletes: 59 (7th and 8th grade, A and B teams)
Academic eligibility: 97% of student-athletes were eligible at the end of the first six weeks.
Notable achievements: Under the leadership of Coach Bianca Gonzalez, Head Volleyball Coach and Girls Athletic Coordinator, the volleyball program saw a record number of participants, with no athletes being cut. A practice team was formed to ensure every student stays engaged and involved.
Junior High Football:
Total student-athletes: 80
Academic eligibility: 87% of football players were eligible after the first six weeks.
Notable achievements: All three football teams were retained after the first grading cycle, a marked improvement from previous years when teams would drop to two due to academic ineligibility. The program is committed to raising this percentage even higher with continued academic support for the athletes.
Junior High Cross Country & Tennis:
Academic eligibility: Both teams achieved 100% academic eligibility after the first grading period.
Notable achievements: These teams exemplify the highest standard of balancing academic and athletic responsibilities, with all students maintaining eligibility to compete.
Four student-athletes shared how participating in the athletics program has positively impacted their experiences in the classroom, their other extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. Presenters included eighth-grade student athletes Jimena Leija and Airika Jackson and seventh-grade student athletes Ella Gonzales and A'rayleh Collins. 
The Snyder Junior High athletics program is thriving, with student-athletes demonstrating dedication to both their academic and athletic responsibilities. This focus on academics reflects the hard work of the coaching staff and the commitment of the students. As the Junior High Tigers continue to excel in both areas, the district is laying a strong foundation for future success at Snyder High School.
