FEBRUARY NOVEMBER 12,2,2013 2012 NOVEMBER 1, 2012
THE JAGROAR!
The Jag -
ROAR Art honored: Students gain awards, Page 4 Marky Mark: Top 12 of 2012 Page 6 Valentine’s Day: What to do for singles or couples, page 8 What now? Moving forward from Sandy Hook, Page 11
Happy February Sports: page 17
Spotlight: Mr. Murphy is N.H. Principal of the Year, Page 3 Dances over for good? Rumors dispelled, Page 10
Crunch time: How to study and know your learning strengths, Page 12-15 Souper Bowl: Art fights hunger, Page 16
THE JAGROAR
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
OPINION Editorial By Alex DeSimone JagRoar Editor-In-Chief Congratulations to surviving a great /irst term of the 2012/2013 year. Hopefully everyone did well on their midterms and /inal exams. I assume everyone is enjoying new classes and if not there is still time to switch.
I would like to dedicate this JagRoar editorial to the student who is battling meningitis. We hope the student is doing okay, and I send my best wishes to the student as well as the family. They have been through a lot. Stick together, Windham.
JagROAR STAFF Alex DeSimone Editor In Chief Hannah Collins Features/Activities Editor Kailee Doherty Reporter/Photographer Daniel Farias Reporter/Photographer Kelsey Federico Sports Editor Hannah Harootian General Staff
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Kelsey Kendzulak General Staff Ariana Mandra News Editor Sophie Samuels Opinion Editor Ms. Katherine Lanzer Staff Adviser Mrs. Nancy Gaudet Staff Adviser Ms. Riana Cleveland Staff Volunteer
Have an opinion you want to share? The JagRoar wants to hear your voice! If you have an opinion you’d like to share on the Opinion pages, write a Letter to the Editor and email it to Ms. Lanzer or Ms. Gaudet. We will do our best to fit your letter into the next edition of the JagRoar.
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THE JAGROAR!
SPOTLIGHT
FEBRUARY 12, 2012
2013 New Hampshire Principal of the Year
Photo Credit: Ariana Mandra
Mr. Murphy By Ariana Mandra JagRoar Staff
decides who is the best fit for the New Hampshire Principal of the Year title.
# On January 10th, 2013 Mr. Murphy was recognized as the New Hampshire “He is a very strong speaker.” - David Gagnon, Senior Principal of the Year at a conference in # When one decides to become a teacher, he Meredith, N.H. This great honor was a big surprise or she has children in mind. That is one of Mr. to him upon hearing the news. When asked, Mr. Murphy’s favorite parts of being an administrator. Murphy said that he takes the award as “a He enjoys “fosters opportunities for them and recognition about what positive change has been engaging children in their schoolwork.” In addition made with students, faculty, and our community.” he strives to make the school environment # In order to become Principal of the Year, Mr. Murphy had to be nominated, write a multitude enjoyable for everyone. # Like many others who are committed to of essays, and then go through a series of their jobs, Mr. Murphy finds its challenging to interviews. Becoming a semi-finalist means that manage his time between his students and his officials come to the school and talk to people in personal children. He tries to participate in as many the community about the principal in the competition. After becoming a finalist, a committee school events as he can, but still be active in his own children’s lives. Another main goal of his is to of current and former principals deliberates and not be “one of those principals that just sits in his “I like how he participates in school events. ” -Erin Preble, Junior or her office all day and is never seen.”
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THE JAGROAR
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Arts & Entertainment
Above: Sarah Cauthen awarded Gold Key for her “Coil Vase” Stoneware (left) and also Honorable Mention for her Porcelain “Nature Vase” (right) Below: Jacalynn Manning awarded Silver Key for her Self-Portrait, “Messy” Charcoal on Paper Sarah and Jacalynn’s work was displayed at Pinkerton Academy’s Stockbridge Theater
Above: Becca Lane, Self Portrait “Melancholy” Graphite on Paper selected for exhibition at NH Institute of Art February 22 - March 16
WHS Students Honored in State and National Competitions By Nancy Gaudet and Hannah Cole JagRoar Staff Adviser WHS student art work was submitted in January for the N.H. Scholastic Art Awards, the N.H. Institute of Art’s National Drawing Competition, and N.H. Art All State. Three pieces were juried into this
prestigious show from eighteen pieces submitted. Congratulations to Windham High School students: Rebecca Lane, Sarah Cauthen, and Jacalynn Manning. To have a piece of artwork selected for exhibition is an honor as only a limited number of work can be submitted from each art teacher.
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THE JAGROAR
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The following sudent work was also submitted to the competition: Above, left to right: Haley Psareas, “Trotting Horse;” Jacob Estivez, “Armadillo;” Nichole Sinclair, “Dove;” Ben Bursell, “Stingray;” Meghan Cole, “Wolf;” Leyla Desjardin, “Swimming Swan;” David Musto, “Eagle.” Below: Jeffrey Trovato, “Frank;” Zach Nardini, “Chevy Truck;” Sarah Cauthen, “Tree;” Daniel Rousseau, “Down & Ready;” Meredith Murphy, “Music is Power.”
Top: Student work was developed using stoneware with glaze. Above Center: Stoneware clay slab creations Right: Cara Chrissis, “Christmas Still” Charcoal on Paper and Samantha Broady, “Pastel Horse” Pastel on Paper (drawings).
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THE JAGROAR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Marky Mark’s Top Twelve of Twenty-Twelve! Greetings friends! It’s been just about one month since the new year began, however, I feel that this month’s column is a perfect opportunity to bid adieu to the old year by recognizing a few of the year’s high points. Hopefully you’ll enjoy my highlights, which, although quite entertaining, are merely a dis-jointed cluster of my favorite pop culture selections of the late, great 2012. So without further ado, I present to you my ‘Top Twelve of Twenty-Twelve’...
1. Lena Dunham: At the top of the list is HBO’s shining new Golden Girl, a beautifully snarky upand-coming comedienne named Lena Dunham. Ms. Dunham is the head writer, director, and lead actress of the wonderfully hilarious premium showstopper “Girls”, a comedy about a group of 20something-year-old ladies. The show has catapulted Ms. Dunham into fame, and she happened to snag two Golden Globes and an Emmy in process.
2. Lana Del Rey: This amazingly talented songstress is a newcomer to the world of fame. Lana Del Rey made a splash this year with her debut album “Born to Die” and it’s companion EP “Paradise”, the latter being my favorite of the two and also favorite album of the year overall. Together, the two albums spawned instant baroque-pop classics.
3. Barack Obama: Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States of America, was e l e c te d f o r a s e co n d te r m , m u c h to t h e excitement of anyone who isn’t wealthy, caucasian, straight, or male. I’m hopeful that President Obama’s reelection brings the promise of more progress toward equality for all Americans in the near future!
4. The Ancient Mayans: Although this selection is a little facetious, there’s something to be said for the fact that the end of the Ancient Mayan calendar was not
Picture source: Mark Lawrence
seen by the end of the world as a whole. Now that I’ve lived through Y2K, 06/06/06, the Rapture, and the Mayan Apocalypse, I feel the need to sing Destiny’s Child’s “Survivor” from the rooftops. 6
THE JAGROAR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
5. Anne Hathaway: This brilliant actress brought audiences two amazing performances this year. I’m sure that not a single
6. Alison Sudol: This fall, Ms. Sudol
eye was left dry after her Oscar-worthy rendition of “I Dreamed
released her third album “Pines” and its
a Dream” that was swept through movies theaters across the
story book companion called The Story of
world on Christmas night. However, we mustn't forget to
Pines, which are both adorable media-
mention the fact that she kicked so much ass with her portrayal
accessories to any smartphone or tablet.
of Selina Kyle in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises.” 7. Jessica Chastain: In 2012, Ms. Chastain made a
8 . Q u v e n z h a n é Wa l l i s : T h i s
riveting performance in Katherine Bigelow’s “Zero Dark
incredibly talented nine-year-old stole
Thirty”, earning her a second Oscar nomination in two
the hearts of anyone and everyone
years. Together, Ms. Chastain and her director Ms.
who was lucky enough to see her
Bigelow make a brilliantly coupled team of artists who
Oscar-nominated performance in
support and encourage the place of women in film, which
“Beasts of the Southern Wild.” Will
is absolutely inspiring to see. Along with “Zero Dark
she follow in the footsteps of Tatum
Thirty,” Ms. Chastain also starred in a new revival of “The
O'Neal and Anna Paquin?
Heiress” at the Walter Kerr Theatre on Broadway. 10. Quentin Tarantino: Mr. Tarantino made a 9. Kathy Griffin: Ms. Griffin stepped back onto the television scene this year with her hilarious new talk show “Kathy.” Although I do miss the fiery comedienne’s reality program “My Life on the D-List,” her newest adventure in the world of television is a brilliant triumph of pop-culture criticism and hilarious commentary on the latest celebrity news.
triumphant return this year with his brilliantly dark comedy about the turbulent times of the American South prior to the Civil War. “Django Unchained” stars several heavy hitters, including Jamie Foxx, Samuel L. Jackson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz. 12. Wes Anderson: 2012 reunited us
11. Ryan Lochte: The 2012 Summer Olympic Games
with our love for all things quirky,
brought the beautiful sight of Grade A athletes in tight
cute, and amusing in Mr. Anderson’s
shorts to television screens across the world, most notably
instant classic Moonrise Kingdom, a
American swimmer Ryan Lochte, who won his fourth and
film about two young adventurers
fifth gold medals in London.
who try to escape the suffocating climate of small-town life.
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THE JAGROAR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
V alentine’s Just because you don't have that special someone to spend a gushy Valentine’s Day with, that doesn’t mean its not going to be a blast. Here are some fun things you can do, alone or with friends, to make this Valentine’s Day a success.
Bake cupcakes Valentine’s Day is all about the treats, so Either with friends or on your own make some cupcakes or other baked goodies. http://iadorefood.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ Chocolate-cupcakes-with-pink-icing.jpg http://www.qacps.k12.md.us/ces/clipart/Carson
Have a friends night out Whether its Valentine’s Day or not, everyone loves to hang with their friends. If you don’s have a boyfriend or girlfriend to go with then why not your friends? Dress up, go out, and make this one of the best Valentine’s Days ever. http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5lK-0CBUR_E/ StJ3151hylI/AAAAAAAAACk/BXrjlFNh_Bc/S660/ IN-103-brownlounge_lg.jpg
http://gapsa.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/ 2012/10/atthemovies.jpg
Do a movie marathon Everyone loves to watch movies, so the perfect thing to end another Valentines day is with a movie marathon. You can go with a mushy romance movie, Like The Notebook or The Titanic.
Wear sweatpants and have a junk food night http://www.kimdolanleto.com/wpcontent/uploads/2012/01/Junk-food.jpg
You don't have to go out for Valentine’s Day instead put on your favorite pair of sweatpants (we all have them) and invite over some friends to chow down on the most unhealthy junk food that you can think of, whether it’s candy or chips. 8
THE JAGROAR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Day Is Here
If you have a boyfriend or Girlfriend then take Valentines day to appreciate them. Valentines day is all about that special someone and showing them how much you care. So whether its a quiet night in, or a group date, make some time and spend it with them.
Get them some Candy http://www.funinmarriage.com/wp-content/ Whether you are a uploads/2011/02/20491913.png boy or girl you have to love candy. Their are so many selections from gummy bears, to chocolate truffles.
Have dinner together Dinner with that special someone is always enjoyable, so this Valentine’s http://thinkchristian.net/images/articles/ Day, either stay Valentines_Day_dinner.jpg home and cook a great meal or go out to dinner at a nice restaurant.
Get them a cute gift ! A cute bear or puppy ! stuffed animal shows how much you care and makes a sweet yet silly Valentine’s Day present. http://www.yourengagement101.com/daily-101/files/ 2009/03/cute-stuffed-animal-engagement.jpg
http:// www.abcteach.co m/directory/clipart-holidayseasonalvalentinesday-2768-2-1
Get them some jewelry Girls love Jewelry, so to turn this Valentine’s Day into a success purchase a necklace, or other form of jewelry. Preferably with some kind of heart or romantic message. 4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6b2LM4FVgo/TbGylp5byqI/AAAAAAAAAXk/ 3IQZfUKfIGc/s1600/ruby-teddy-bear-necklace.jpg
Buy them some flowers
http:// 4.bp.blogspot.com/ -KZ2VTlN2NOY/ UNqrM10mXcI/ AAAAAAAAUro/ IOYRDgInMFo/ s1600/Aruna.JPG
Flowers never go out of style, especially on Valentine’s Day. Roses make an amazing, not to mention romantic gift.
http:// www.thepersonaldevelop mentguy.com/image-files/ clipart-be-my-valentinehearts.jpg
! ! ! And if you haven't yet told that person how you feel take advantage of this day and send them a Valentine. 9
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FEBRUARY 12, 2013
GENERAL NEWS Dances under scrutiny after black light dance Hannah Harootian and Kelsey Kendzulak JagRoar Staff
Since the night of the black light dance, rumors have spread about what precautions the Windham High School administration will take. # Some people heard that there would be no more dances throughout this school year, excluding prom. However, when asked, Mr. Murphy corrected the rumor by saying “All dances are not canceled for the rest of the year, but it is open to discussion.” Another rumor was that Windham High School was going to start using breathalyzers. “Passive breathalyzers are a possibility,” said Mr. Murphy, “but they do not solve the problem.” For instance, breathalyzers would prevent kids from abusing the use of alcohol, but they could resort to other things instead. “There is no foolproof system. Breathalyzers
will prevent one thing, but not the other.” The high school is going to continue following the rules that were set into place since the beginning. No water bottles can be brought into the dance and if a teenager does not show up to the dance, their parents would be called afterwards to make sure that they were aware of their whereabouts. “Some kids are going to make bad decisions, but it’s how we handle it,” Mr. Murphy stated. # Mr. Murphy also announced that they were going to start “selling tickets ahead of time because we want to make sure that you not only have a good time, but that your parents know where you are.” Windham High School is handling situations of the past and of the future to the best of its ability. Although some students may not make the right decisions, the school is trying its best to keep everyone safe.
Pierson wins Poetry Out Loud competition Ariana Mandra JagRoar Staff # On Tuesday, January 29th, seven Windham High School students participated in an annual national poetry competition. This competition, Poetry Out Loud, is sponsored by the Poetry Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. Hosted by senior Mark Lawrence, the students recited two poems each in two rounds.They were judged on accuracy, physical presence, voice and articulation, dramatic Photo Credit: Ms. Parkhurst appropriate-ness, level of difficulty (of his or her (From le$ to right) Ms. Davis, Ariana Mandra, Daniel Farias, poem), evidence of understanding, and his or her Cassandra Cole, Caitlin Pierson, Ram Sheth, Sophie Samuels, overall performance. Brittany Missert, and Mark Lawrence # # The 1st place winner, Caitlin Pierson, will be competing in the regional competition in March while the runner-up, school champion of the Poetry Out Loud Cassandra Cole, will take her place if need be. New competition. More scholarships are offered the England College offers a $20,000 scholarship to the farther a competitor gets into the competition.
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THE JAGROAR!
GENERAL NEWS
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Sandy Hook: Where do schools go from here? Alex DeSimone JagRoar Staff
Toward the end of 2012, Sandy Hook elementary was the scene of a heinous crime. A 22year-old man walked into the school and opened fire on 27 people, the majority young, innocent children. The principal and an aide were killed trying to protect the children and stop the perpetrator. The shooter committed suicide after he had fatally shot the others. Mrs. DeSimone said, “When I heard what happened I was in shock and at a loss. I could only think of my children and how thankful I am that they were okay and grieved for the families who lost someone.” # In the aftermath, where do we go from here based on security? What actions should be taken place in order to stop these tragedies to happen anymore? Amanda DeSimone, a freshmen at
Windham High School, believes, “Schools should be protected more. I feel that every school whether elementary or college should have a police officer and working security. Children are too vulnerable with limited security.” Outside of Windham High School, a voice box has been placed in order to enter the building. Also, Windham has a resource officer to keep watch during learning hours. United States Marines have even started volunteering to keep watch outside elementary schools. Mr. O’Connor, a teacher at Windham High School, commented on moving forward: “Trends like this cannot happen. Moving forward from this, we need to identify those who need help. We need to be more aware around us.” So the question for security at schools is now what else they can do to keep schools safer.
Honors Genocide Class: ‘Bones’ for Charity Kelsey Federico JagRoar Staff # To most, genocide is equivalent to the Holocaust, the mass murder of Jews under the German Nazi regime during the period 1941–45. This is not the only form of genocide that has ever been committed. In fact, it is happening right now. Genocide is not a thing of the past, but a current problem in this world. ! Mrs. O’Connell’s Honors Genocide class has been studying and unraveling the depth behind genocide, understating that the source of it does not only come from the perpetrators themselves, but the reaction from the international community. # To help, they initiated the first ever Genocide Awareness Night at WHS. “Genocide is a real and ever present issue worldwide that does not receive enough attention. Often after these mass atrocities people will stand behind the statement ‘Never again, never forget,’ and yet few people know about present situations or what they can do to help. Hosting events like this here at WHS helps
in the effort to inform the public of what is going on in the world around them; change cannot come from the uninformed,” O’Connell explains. # The night included various presentations on preventing genocide and even making clay bones. One Million Bones is a national project to raise awareness on the issue of genocide and to also raise funds to assist areas, particularly on the African continent, recovering from genocide. The bones made by students at WHS each raise one dollar for Students Rebuild which assists in rebuilding schools and providing educational opportunities for the people in these areas. # All of the bones will also be displayed in March at the New Hampshire installation and then again in Washington D.C. in June. “In June, the goal is to have one million bones on the National Mall as a significant visual representation of genocide, WHS so far has 162 bones to contribute with more on the way” O’Connell proudly mentions. Not only are her classes learning about this topic, but they are actually finding ways to aid it themselves.
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GENERAL NEWS
THE JAGROAR!
By Sophie Samuels
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Studying:
JagRoar Staff
With midterms last month, many students were stressed about studying. “How do I study effectively?” and “How will I get the best grades on my exams?” were frequently asked questions. With midterms over, many people are relieved. Although they can be brutal and fairly annoying, midterms bring up the subject of studying: how to do it well and how to get the best grades on the tests. Even though the tests are over, finals are still going to come around (as much as we wish they wouldn’t) and tests are assigned all the time in most classes. To help the readers of this newspaper for their next tests, here are some great tips on how to study well to get a good grade on any kind of test, quiz, or exam. WHEN TO STUDY:
• Look over your work right after class because it will still be on your mind. • Instead of cramming, space out your studying during the week and look at a little of each subject each day. • Try to study when you are more fully awake, like in the afternoon. If you study when you are tired, it can be hard to retain the information. • Have a study schedule. This will allow you to stay on task and be focused on one thing. This will also keep your days structured.
For more information log on to: www.testtakingtips.com www.squidoo.com/ studytipsandtricks Photo courtesy co&egestudytips.net
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GENERAL NEWS
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Tips and Tricks WHILE STUDYING:
• Remember, it can be okay to listen to music. It can relax you and keep you entertained, but it is best when the music is on a lower volume and is more calm without as many lyrics. • Try to get out all your material you need to study. It is best if you collect all past papers, notebooks, and binders on the Photo courtesy westwinsterco&ege.zenfolio,.com subject(s) and use those. • When you are looking for a place to study, try to find somewhere quiet and comfortable that won’t lead you to distractions (such as friends, electronics, etc.) • Take short breaks frequently; it is better for your brain to concentrate. Try eating healthy foods on your break. • Turn off the TV and other electronics because everyone knows that when we say we’ll check Facebook for two minutes, it is definitely longer than that. REMEMBER:
• Learn general ideas about what you’re studying first; it is most important. When you are sure about yourself on the basic information, that is when you can delve into the less vague details. • Studying in a group can be great, but make sure your friends don’t distract you and keep you from being focused. • Use reviews if the teacher has provided them to you so you can know your strongest and weakest points. Have you or your friends quiz yourself. • Try making more interesting ways of studying, like games, flashcards, and using whiteboards. 13
GENERAL NEWS
THE JAGROAR!
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
What type of Have you ever spent extra time studying for a test, but still didn’t do well? Do you ever feel hopeless when sitting down to study? Well consider this... Many people may assume that all people learn the same, or similarly, to each other. When studying for tests and quizzes, the study techniques some use may not be the affective choice for everyone. Notecards and rote memorization are not the only methods available to prepare for tests and quizzes. Before you spend countless hours studying for your next big exam, consider your learning style.
You may be a visual learner if... 1. You must see to know, and understand concepts 2. You have a strong sense of colors 3. You have difficulty with verbal directions 4. You have trouble following lectures
Photo courtesy homeschooler.com
You may be an auditory learner if.... 1. You prefer to hear information to understand 2. You have difficulty following written directions 3. You have difficulty with Reading and Writing
You may be a kinesthetic learner if... 1. You prefer hands on activities to learn 2. You can put together parts without reading directions 3. You have difficulty sitting still 4. You learn better when physically active 5. You are coordinated and have strong athletic ability
Information credited to Ms. Cleveland 14
THE JAGROAR!
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
GENERAL NEWS
Learner are you? Learning Su)estions Kinesthetic learners: 1. Learn through experimenting (models, lab work, acting things out) 2. Schedule breaks in study periods 3. Trace letters and words to memorize information and spelling 4. Use computer sources for studying 5. Memorize material while walking or exercising 6. Incorporate material/assignments through dance, drama, or gymnastics
Three major types of learners: • Visual - needs to see to learn • Auditory - oral, interactive learners • Kinesthetic - tactile, physical learners
Auditory learners: 1. Use tapes and recordings for class notes and lectures 2. Learn through interviewing and actively participating in class 3. Have test questions or directions read out loud to you
Visual learners:
Photo courtesy uptothemoon.com
1. Use graphic organizers, slides, illustrations and diagrams 2. Color coordinate and organize notes 3. Write out directions 4. When taking notes, use flow charts and diagrams 5. Visualize facts and spelling to memorize information
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THE JAGROAR!
GENERAL NEWS
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Make Art... # # # # Eat Soup... # # # # # # # # Fight Hunger By Nancy Gaudet and FLTA Staff JagRoar Staff Adviser # The WHS Art Department, in collaboration with the National Honor Society, New Horizons, Windham Art Association, Windham Community Development Office, and many others will host a three-night event to benefit New Horizons, which began on Friday, February 1st.
Friday, February 22 from 2:30-7:00. $ The public is invited to the WHS Art room to glaze ceramic bowls. This is similar to “paint your own pottery.” All ages and levels of experience are welcome. There is no charge.
For more information please contact: Hannah Cole at hcole@windhamhighschool.org Janet Robbins jrobbins@windhamhighschool.org Jeff Trovato jtrovato13@windhamhighschool.org
Join WHS for Souperbowl Saturday Saturday, March 16 from 5:00-7:00. # This culminating event precedes the February art events described above. A suggested donation of $15 per individual and $30 per family includes a fabulous evening of “all you can eat” soups, breads, desserts, and other goodies as well as a gorgeous handmade bowl. Food is provided by restaurants and members of the community at large. All proceeds go to benefit New Horizons. # A special thank you to Jeff Trovato for being the student coordinator for this event!
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WHS SPORTS
Wrestling photo: Corey Alberico Girls gymnastics: Ali Otis
Boys Basketball photo: Tyler Masone
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SPORTS
THE JAGROAR!
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
WHITE OUT BASKETBALL GAME By Ram Sheth Recently, on January 18th, Windham High School basketball team participated in a “white out” game against Cheverhus High School from Portland, ME. The purpose of the game was to encourage students to stay above the influence of alcohol and drugs. Our Jaguars won, with a score of 67-47, and there was celebration all around. When asked about the game, Brian
Mader, a part of the freshman basketball team, stated that the game was very “exciting”, and that the students “played very well”. This was directly followed by the WHS annual black light dance, so there was even more reason to celebrate. In another interview with Tim Stap, a WHS sophomore, the game was mentioned as “big”, and the “game of a lifetime”. The white out game was a big success and hopefully the Jags will continue to win throughout the season.
TURF FIELD By Kelsey Federico There has been new talk around the Windham community concerning the proposal of a new full-sized turf field at Windham High. Teams such as football, field hockey, boys and girls lacrosse and soccer can verify that our current grass fields do not support the athletic abilities of our sports teams and players. In the 2012 lacrosse season, the girls and boys of both teams were faced with the highly dangerous and frustrating flaws of the grass fields. Not only were they bumpy and uneven, but the area that surrounded each goal was severely harmful, this being a “high-traffic” area where most of the grass is ripped away. This leaves patches of complete dirt, and when the rain comes, mud. Lots of mud. Several players left the field with rolled ankles and other various injuries. Injuries pose as great of a threat to athletes as much as their actual competitors do. Besides facing teams such as St.
Thomas and Lebanon, the 2012 field hockey team faced their greatest competitor this year —their field. One side of the field contained overgrown grass while the other was entirely dirt in front of the goal. “Spread out over the entire field are these clusters of overgrown grass that we call our trolls. They are impossible to trim down and with a sport like field hockey that involves the ball to be played on the ground 100% of the time, it is difficult when the ball constantly flies into the air because of these bumps”, junior Nicole Croteau explains after this past season. The field was deemed “unplayable” by a few referees over the course of the season. Turf will help guide us there. With turf, we can prevent injuries and keep the school a bit cleaner without tracking in mud, dirt, and grass from disastrous fields. To reach consistency, we must play on a consistent surface. That is what turf can bring to WHS.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2013