MHS sponsors 25 organized teams throughout the fall, winter and spring seasons. However, these sports aren’t the only options for students: others elect to play more expensive sports. Motocross is a prime example of a non-sponsored, expensive sport for students.

Brandon Waltman, junior, began participating in motocross at a young age. Motocross, Waltman said, is a closed course motor bike racing sport. Waltman acknowledges that his sport is more expensive than “traditional” sports.

“My motorcycle cost me $4,000,” Waltman said. “Nowadays, they cost anywhere from $6,000 to $9,000.”

Other costs for this sport include gear, which Waltman said requires at least a $2,000 investment.

Waltman does have methods to cope with the costs of his sport, however. He has achieved sponsorship, which provides him with discounts on gear, and his parents cover some of the expenses. His sponsors include No Fear, Decal and Garnier Beats.

Waltman plays volleyball and used to play soccer for MHS, but now chooses to spend more time on motocross.

“It’s a lifestyle,” Waltman said.

Another student, Tori Peterson, junior, said she is a horseback rider, a sport which involves shows and racing. Peterson, who has won show championships, said she got involved in horseback riding when she was very young.

“I went to a [horseback] camp a long time ago,” Peterson said. “I knew I wanted to do it after that.”

Peterson said the costs of her sport greatly exceed those sponsored by MHS. Owning or renting a horse, a stable and equipment are all main expenses and necessities when it comes to horseback riding.

“It’s at least $750 a month to keep up a barn,” Peterson said. “It’s even more for a horse.”

Hockey is also not sponsored by MHS or the district as a whole. Luke Pittaluga, junior, plays on the MHS Club hockey team, and said there is a bigger financial burden since the sport does not belong to the district.

“[Hockey costs] are more than $2,000,” Pittaluga said. “I lose out on movie money sometimes.”

Just like motocross, gear makes up a large portion of hockey expenses. Hockey gear includes a helmet, stick gloves. Pittaluga also said travel costs had to be factored into the equation.

Activities Director Mark Linneman said financial issues make up part of the reason why hockey isn’t sponsored.

“Finances would be a concern,” Linneman said of the sports nature.

Outside of the football, soccer, basketball and baseball, Waltman said there are other sports out there that should be given a shot.

“Motocross is awesome,” Waltman said. “There’s always alternate sports.”