Last week’s weather put a damper on local athletics. The wind and cold made it almost unbearable to sit outside and watch a baseball or softball game even if most of the teams had opted to play.

After a down week, Beaufort County’s competitors came out ready to play this week. Washington’s girls’ soccer team lit up its two opponents this week. Southside’s softball team still hasn’t been beaten after ousting neighboring Bear Grass. Unity Christian Academy, in only its second year with a softball team, also has an undefeated start to the season.

There’s a lot of excitement in the area. There should be, too, after the way so many teams performed last season. Washington and Northside’s softball teams battled some of the best in the state. Other squads — like Lady Pack soccer and all the area baseball teams — are a bit more experienced heading into this campaign.

Even around the corner in Greenville, East Carolina baseball is among the top teams in the entire nation.

Expectations seem to be high almost across the board. Even so, one shouldn’t let that take away from the enjoyment of competition. Athletes are representing their respective schools, as well as all of Beaufort County, when they take the field. Their successes reflect back on the area, but so does their sportsmanship.

The same goes for spectators. Things don’t always go the way one would like it. Referees and umpires are human beings, and as such, are prone to making mistakes. On the national scale, a referee missed a blatant goaltending call at a crucial moment in the recent Northwestern vs. Gonzaga NCAA tournament game. Those officiating high school sports usually aren’t close to that level. It happens.

Take everything in stride this summer. Enjoy spending some time in the warm weather and watching the fruits of local athletes’ labors, but do so respectfully.