Taking one for the team" acquires a different meaning for those players who go onto the field despite injuries.

Two baseball players at Midland Valley High School were involved in separate incidents this year that left them with broken noses.

Josh White, a senior first baseman, broke his nose after a throw from the outfield took an unexpected hop. His doctor suggested that he take four to five days before returning to the field. Josh described his pain as "excruciating."

Cody McElhaney, a senior pitcher and shortstop, has broken his nose twice and his jaw once and has played ball while in a cast. His most recent broken nose came from a relay throw from the outfield.

"It wasn't as bad as a broken jaw," he said.

Another Midland Valley player who has been injured is Bentli Jones, a senior who plays left field on the softball team. Bentli fractured the tip of her finger while going for a pop fly against Fox Creek High School.

Bentli described her experience as a heavy feeling in her finger, which gushed blood when she squeezed it. She said she became light-headed when it happened.

This was Bentli's first injury, even though she has played softball, tennis and golf throughout high school. Her doctor recommended a two-week recovery, but she still plays when the team is in a pinch.

Other baseball injuries have affected Josh Adams, who damaged tendons in his arm, and Josh Hatcher, who pulled a hamstring.

Injured players are extremely motivated, according to coach Bruce Zuehlke. Most injured players attend practice, even if they only watch.

Other injuries have cost players playing time. Angelia Hill, a sophomore varsity basketball player, dislocated her knee before Christmas. Eight weeks later she has still not recovered. Angelia still cheered her team on from the bench.

Many athletes have experienced injuries. Overcoming such obstacles is one way they become stronger, better and more seasoned. Every athlete has a story. These are just a few.

Jordan Cook is a senior at Midland Valley High School