On December 2, 2023, West Orange High School (WOHS) held the first-ever Winter Sports Media Day in the Tarnoff Gym from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first half consisted from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the second half from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Hosted by the West Orange High School Sports Media Association (WOHSSMA), the event held most of the winter sports teams in the high school. This included boys and girls basketball, track and field, swimming, fencing, hockey, and wrestling. 

Traditionally, Winter Sports media days were held for individual sports at a time. However, this full-day allowed the WOHSSMA to capture all the seasons’ teams at once.  

The teams went to different stations throughout the day, and the athletes had the opportunity to take photos and get an exclusive interview conducted by The Pioneer in the press conference room (see our articles here for a closer look into our winter sports teams). 

A few student-athletes from each team were chosen for this station near the Tarnoff Gym entrance. They were asked questions by current journalism and sports media students, alumni, and others. WOHS Alumni Evan Easterling, editor from the New York Times, even came to help guide discussions. This allowed the athletes to share their opinions and goals about how their seasons will go. 

Other stations included photo areas, where the athletes would get their pictures taken with different color backgrounds and props, adding to the fun and excitement of the event.

With the success of the event, we wait in anticipation for the 2024 Spring Sports Media Day. 

Access the 2023 Winter Sports Media Day photos here!