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Susan Merritt Reflects on 30 Years at NCS
If anyone has the long view of NCS athletics, it's Susan Merritt. We asked her to reflect on her years at NCS as a physical education instructor and coach, currently coaching lacrosse and field hockey. Susan's too modest to mention it, but in Spring 1999 she was inducted into the Lacrosse Hall of Fame; she played for the U.S. Lacrosse Team for six years, and was part of the World Cup team in 1982.
What has working at NCS meant to you?
I came to NCS in the fall of 1983, on a one-year contract! I was taking the place of a friend who was going on sabbatical, and I had no idea what this "interim" position would lead to: An extended stay? No more job? It was a big risk, but 30 years later, I can honestly say it was the best risk I've ever taken. I've loved working with my fellow coaches and department members, who challenge me very day. I've enjoyed the intellectual stimulation, and humor, of my colleagues in all three school divisions. And I have truly loved working with the students. Now I am teaching some children of my former students. It’s very rewarding.
Why stay for 30 years?
The Physical Education department is unique in that we teach all three divisions. We have the joy of working with the girls on a long-term basis, and watching them grow into mature young women. When we teach a 4th grader, we can't wait to see how they will turn out when they're older. The next thing we know, they're seniors, and we've known that girl for half of her life!
Highlight memories of NCS?
- My student Outing Club in the '80s and early '90s, which went biking, hiking, caving, and more, and the activities/outings I currently organize for faculty and staff.
- Winning back-to-back field hockey tournament titles in '91 and '92.
- Winning a share of the ISL lacrosse banner in the spring '95.
- Basketball in the early '90s: we ended up the #2 team in the DC area in '92-'93. Procter Gym was packed for every home game and the place rocked.
- Getting our brand-new, state-of-the-art Athletic Center in '02.
- Getting our brand-new, state-of-the-art turf fields in '12.
I have been blessed to work in a school that values athletics and physical education as a key ingredient in a young woman's education. The fact that so many of our student-athletes go on to compete collegiately (47 are currently playing at the varsity level, and many more are playing club or intramurals) speaks to the impact that playing sports had on their lives when they were at NCS. They know the value of teamwork and sportsmanship, and that can carry them through so many aspects of their adult lives. In short, I have not regretted for a minute that "scary decision" I made in 1983 and my three decades on the Close. Time flies when you're having fun!
This article first appeared in the Fall 2012 issue of NCS Magazine.
