What is a Mount Carmel student to do when it takes more time to commute to school than a workout that he needs to get done that day?
That is the concern of senior athletes like Andrew “Pancho” Vazquez and TJ McQuillan. Both believe a waiver allowing students to work out without supervision would be a great addition.
A proposal has surfaced that would give Mount Carmel students permission to use the weight room without direct supervision if a waiver is signed by a guardian. Supporters say the idea would help not only save time and money on gas and gym memberships but also allow students to have more flexibility with their schedules.
The current rule requires after-school supervision for a student to use the weight room, leaving some students struggling to get lifts in if they have other commitments or there is no adult available to be in the weight room. A waiver system proposed by this author would allow responsible Caravan students to train on their own time with parent consent. Both McQuillan and Vazquez said this change would save them money and help them grow as athletes.
“I really have to plan my day around driving,” said McQuillan. “If I could lift here at Mount Carmel, I would have more free time instead of driving an extra hour to another gym.”
Currently, athletes are often asked to leave the weight room if no adult is available to supervise. Students like McQuillan and Vazquez face additional challenges with long commutes. McQuillan drove seven- hundred miles in just one week last winter.
Athletes see the waiver as a way to balance accountability with independence. McQuillan believes students with parent consent should be trusted to handle themselves properly. “I would definitely sign a waiver if there was one to sign,” he said.
Vazquez agreed, pointing out that Mount Carmel athletes are serious about training and would benefit from having more control of their schedules.
Administrators like MC principal Mr. Scott Tabernacki see both the potential and the risk. While acknowledging that students could benefit from more flexibility, he emphasized the school’s responsibility to provide structure and ensure safety. “It’s more about just having an adult presence in case something does go wrong or somebody does get injured,” Mr. Tabernacki said.
McQuillan also views the proposal as a way to strengthen the MC community. “I have had the chance to work out with football and basketball guys in the weight room,” he said, “and it is a great way to meet new people, learn new lifts, and get to know classmates.,”
Vazquez added that commuting can make staying motivated more difficult. He also highlighted the role of upperclassmen in setting the tone. “Younger guys look up to us,” he said. “If they see us putting weights back and doing things the right way, they will follow.”
With students whose act the way of a Carmel student is expected this system will be a great addition.
“It is not just about lifting,” McQuillan said. “It is about making the most of what Mount Carmel already gives us, using our facilities, and giving athletes a chance to grow.
