Student Athletic & Extracurricular History in Aurora Aurora
Most students grow up involved in some sort of extracurricular activity. According to the Colorado High School Activities Association, over 57% of the student population take part in activities and sports. These clubs, programs and teams shape identities and our community. Aurora’s schools have graduated countless talented young people. Many of them have gone on to prominence. Whether an athlete or a mathlete, these students foster pride in Aurora and their schools. They give reason to celebrate the successes of our students. In this display you will learn about many of these successful Aurorans.
Yet, thousands of extremely talented performers and athletes are not profiled. This exhibit strives to give a cross section of our community and highlights only a few of the many extraordinary Aurora students. Featured here is an exhibition that explores the activities and sports teams that shaped Aurora’s youth throughout the years. Relive the glory days or learn about Aurora’s new generation of students as the museum celebrates hometown pride.
This 1983 photo shows Hinkley High School student Timothy Hutchings throwing a pot.
Aurora Central High School junior Cecily Carter cheers
The 1949 staff of William Smith High School’s “Tribune” for a group of students from Kenton Elementary School newspaper pose in a group photo. during a 1984 pep rally.
Aurora Central High School
Aurora Central High School was established in 1931 as Aurora High School, and changed names upon the establishment of William C. Hinkley High School in 1963. The school has been awarded 19 state championships in seven different sports throughout its history. Girls track and boys gymnastics had long reigns of success among other established programs. As Aurora’s oldest school, Central has featured innumerable concerts, plays and performances featuring young talent for over 85 years. For those interested in activities beyond sports or the performing arts, students have numerous clubs to choose from including adventure game club, Bible club, outdoor club, speech and debate, yearbook club and more.
Aurora Central won the state championship in boys basketball in 1983, the same year the school won the team title in wrestling. Here an Aurora Central High player goes up for a layup against an Overland High School player.
(Photo courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Cherokee Trail High School
The newest addition to the Cherry Creek School District, Cherokee Trail High School, opened to students in the fall of 2003. During its brief history, the Cougars have amassed a total of 9 state championships in baseball, boys and girls track and field, softball, volleyball and spirit. The southeastern-most Aurora school has a robust performing arts program, offering their students over 25 unique classes ranging from theatre to bella voce. The more than 2,800 enrolled students have over 50 clubs and many co-curricular activities to get involved in including fashion club, Gay Straight Alliance, hacky sack club, ping pong club, world affairs club, yearbook club and many more.
Members of the leadership club pose on the school signage in 2008.
(Photo courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
In 2016, Cherokee Trail won the state championship in both The 2012-2013 Cherokee Trail Chamber Orchestra softball and baseball. posing in their concert attire.
(Photo courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
(Photo courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
I
HighEaglecrestSchool
n 2020, Eaglecrest High School will be celebrating its 30th academic year. During its short history, the school has had some amazing years both in the performing arts and athletically. The school has graduated several Broadway performing actors and actresses, Grammy award winning artists and thousands of talented students. The Raptors’ sports programs have won 15 state titles, including winning their first championship only four years after opening their doors in Class 5A state football. The standout program for Eaglecrest is its cheerleading squad with their 9 state trophies.
The Eaglecrest cheer team competing at the state finals on their way to their fourth state title in 1998.
(Photo courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
In 2005, the Eaglecrest softball team won the Class 5A state Performers in the 2010 fall play, “Love Rides championship. the Rails.”
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
(Photo courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
HighGatewaySchool
Gateway High School was Aurora Public School District’s third school, opening in 1973. Athletically, the school has sported several very competitive teams and have won two state titles, softball and cheer (both in 1992). It is clear Gateway had some incredible athletes roam its halls. The school has had several individual state champions in swimming, wrestling, and track. Gateway’s performing arts program has several impressive accolades collected over the years. The percussion ensemble won the Rocky Mountain Association Concert Class championship 8 different times, and were World Champions in 1996 and 1997 at the Winter Guard International Percussion Scholastic Concert World Class.
The Gateway High School’s varsity cheer team in a pyramid in the summer of 1982.
The band drum major brings the marching band to attention during a halftime performance in 1979.
(Photo courtesy of Gateway High School yearbook)
Grandview High School
Grandview High School opened in 1998, in its 21-year history the school has had tremendous success athletically and academically. In 2008, Sports Illustrated named Grandview the best athletic program in the state of Colorado. The sports department has amassed 28 state titles, 26 of which were collected by girls programs. The Wolves have 12 cheerleading championships, five volleyball championships and four girls soccer titles. Notable alumni include numerous professional athletes and several award-winning and All-state performing artists.
Pictured here is the state champion team of 2007. Other concert band.
Members of the 2011 Grandview jazz choir.
(Photo courtesy of Grandview High School yearbook)
William C. Hinkley High School
William C. Hinkley High School was established in 1963 along Chambers Road to meet Aurora Public Schools’ need for an additional high school as population increased in the city. The school was named after William C. Hinkley who served as Superintendent of the Aurora School District from 1949 to 1967 while also serving as the President of the Colorado High School Activities Association from 1954 to 1955. The Hinkley Thunderbirds have won five state titles during their history. These include, baseball, boys cross country, football and two in boys basketball. In 2019, the school offered 26 clubs for students to participate in including Bollywood dance club, environmental science club, sewing and design club, African American leaders of tomorrow and many others.
Performers in Hinkley’s theatrical arts program pose for a photo while dressed in costume for the 1965 production of “Skin of our Teeth.”
Hinkley High School’s marching band performing in a town parade.
The boys baseball team won the state title in 1979.
(Photo courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
OOverland High School
verland High School opened in 1978 as Cherry Creek School District’s third institution. Overland prides itself on its academic successes. It was named as one of Newsweek’s “America's Best High Schools” in 2010 and as one of “America’s Most Challenging Schools” in April 2015. Athletically, the Overland Blazers have brought home 18 state championship trophies. Standout programs include boys basketball, gymnastics, volleyball and girls soccer. In the 2018-2019 school year, Overland offered more than 35 clubs for students to join. These clubs included African united, art club, Gay Straight Alliance, Korean culture club, pre-med club and many more. The performing arts programs at Overland operate under a single mantra. As stated by the department, “As leaders we will empower our students to think critically about and articulate the value of Performing Arts by: Celebrating diversity and working collaboratively. Creating a visible and strong performing arts community. Delivering dynamic and passionate performances.”
Members of the volleyball team hoist their 1990 Class 6A state championship trophy. The volleyball squad has won the title four times throughout its history.
(Photo courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
R
Rangeview High School
angeview High School is the second youngest Aurora Public School behind Vista Peak Preparatory. Rangeview opened to students in 1983. The Raiders have won six state titles in team sports and has several other individual state champions. Rangeview boys basketball won the school’s first (1985), and most recent (2019), state championships. Other programs who have brought home the coveted trophy are boys and girls cross country, girls soccer and girls track and field. The school offers a wide variety of performing arts programs including symphony, marching band, dance, choir ensembles and many more.
A senior basketball player carryies the Class 5A state championship The Chromatics dancing to “Baby its Cold
The spirit squad leads the student body in a cheer during a pep rally in 1988.
(Photo courtesy of Rangeview High School yearbook)
Regis Jesuit High School
Regis Jesuit High School was founded in 1877 as part of the Regis University campus in Denver. In 1989, a parcel of land in Aurora was donated to the school and the high school relocated in August 1990. Regis Jesuit is a co-divisional school, offering single-gender education by operating as two separate divisionsthe Boys Division and the Girls Division. Throughout its history, the Raiders have amassed a total of 67 state championships. The Boys Division has won 54 titles, while the Girls Division (which opened in 2003) has won 13 titles. Prominent athletic programs include boys golf, ice hockey, boys swimming, girls swimming and girls golf. Random Acts of Kindness, Regis Christian Life Community and French cinema & café club are among the many clubs offered at the school. The performing arts program strives to provide opportunities for their students. As stated by the performing arts department, “Though not all students are musicians, orators or actors, all possess talent and creativity.”
Cast members of the 2018-2019 production of “Sister Act.” The play was selected to the 54th annual Colorado Thespian Convention.
(Photo courtesy of Regis Jesuit High School yearbook)
Members of the 1969-1970 band practicing. The Regis Jesuit High School and Regis University co-existed on the campus in Denver and shared facilities until the school relocated to Aurora in 1990.
(Photo courtesy of Regis Jesuit High School yearbook)
Members of the Boys Division swim team. The Regis Jesuit boys swimmers have won 22 state titles throughout history.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Smoky Hill High School
Smoky Hill High School’s inaugural year was in 1974 as part of the Cherry Creek School District. The Smoky Hill Buffaloes have accumulated a total of 18 team state championships in seven different sports, all acquired between 1992 and 2007. The championship programs include boys soccer, baseball, boys track and field, girls cross country, field hockey, volleyball, and girls swimming. Several other individual state titles have been won in tennis and swimming. Smoky Hill offers more than 50 clubs for its students. Some of the clubs offered include animal rescue connection, clay club, history day club, science club, improv, and National Honor Society. The Buffalo performing arts program has had several talented performers throughout its history including 121 All-State choir participants since 2010.
The 2002 Smoky Hill High School girls volleyball team. The Buffalos have won two state titles in volleyball, the most recent coming in 2002.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Smoky Hill HS color guard and marching band at the Gateway to the Rockies Parade.
Vista Peak Preparatory
Vista Peak Preparatory opened its doors in August 2011 and is Aurora’s newest high school. The school is described by the Aurora Public School system as “. . . a cutting-edge model for 21st century education, where all students have the opportunity to participate in career pathways to prepare them for college and career success.” Some of the clubs Vista Peak offers to its student body are spirit club, Japan culture, video game club, chess club, Knowledge Bowl club and several more. Beyond sports and clubs, Vista Peak has had 24 All-State choir performers, all since 2015.
The Vista Peak cheer squad running out to compete in a spirit competition.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Students at Vista Peak cheering on the boys soccer team.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
William Smith High School
William Smith High School and Aurora Central High School have a shared history. The first multi-room school in town was built in 1913 and served all ages of students. In 1931, due to population growth of Aurora, a new building was constructed named William Smith High School, named after the founder of Aurora Public Schools. At the end of the 1940s, the district built a new facility a mile east of William Smith and named it Aurora High School (now Aurora Central High School). Throughout its history the building has served as a high school, a middle school and an elementary school. Known today as Aurora West College Preparatory Academy, this historic building represents the foundation of Aurora’s prep history.
(Photo courtesy of William Smith High School yearbook)
William Smith’s mascot was the Trojan. The mascot followed Aurora High School when it moved in the late 1940s.
(Photo courtesy of William Smith High School yearbook)
William Smith was the city’s first school with a regulation gymnasium. The first school had a basketball floor of dirt.
(Photo courtesy of William Smith High School yearbook)
Baseball Baseball
Danny Jackson
Aurora Central High School
Danny Jackson graduated Aurora Central High School in the class of 1980. Jackson was a three-sport letterman while at Central, excelling in football, basketball and baseball. As a high school senior he was drafted in the first round by Major League Baseball team the Kansas City Royals. Two short years after leaving Aurora, Jackson was pitching in the World Series, in which he became the only player in MLB history to pitch an immaculate inning (when a pitcher strikes out three consecutive batters with 9 pitches) during the World Series. During the lefthander’s 14-year MLB career, Jackson won two World Series with two different teams (Kansas City Royals 1985, Cincinnati Reds 1990), was named an all-star twice (1988, 1994), and played on seven major league clubs.
The Kansas City Royals drafted Jackson in the first round while he was still in high school.
pitch during a Major League Baseball game.
Jackson during his senior year in high school.
So ball
1992 State championship team Gateway High School
The 1992 Gateway High School softball team had their best year in school history. The Olympians won the Aurora softball tournament, the conference championship, the regional championship and the high school’s first state championship. The team featured five All-State athletes. Their star pitcher, Nikki Johnson, was the 1992 Colorado Sports Woman of the Year, All-State, All-conference, Denver Post’s Player of the Year, the Rocky Mountain News’ Pitcher of the Year and went on to play collegiately at Georgia Tech. The championship game was noteworthy. In the fourth inning the game was delayed due to rain until the following Monday. On that Monday the game was again delayed due to snow. Ultimately, the title match was finished that Friday, with a 6 to 2 win over Arvada West. The team credited their preparation and focus during the delayed days of the championship game as the primary tenants that led them to a Class 6A state title.
Team photo of the Varsity 1992 state champions.
(Photo courtesy of Gateway High School yearbook)
Boys Basketball
Eddie Gill
Overland High School
Eddie Gill was born in New Jersey and raised in Aurora. He graduated Overland High School in the class of 1996. While in high school Gill was recruited by college basketball programs. He played collegiate ball at the College of Eastern Utah, Salt Lake Community College and Weber State University. While at Weber State University, Gill was MVP of the 1999 Big Sky Conference Tournament. Gill had a 12 year career in which he played for numerous developmental leagues, international teams and professional basketball teams – including NBA’s New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Portland Trail Blazers, Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks. In 2019 Eddie Gill was inducted into the Overland High School Athletic Hall of Fame.
Eddie Gill passing the ball to a teammate during a game against Boulder High School.
(Courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
Since 2016, Gill has been working as an analyst on the FOX Sports Indiana network covering the Indiana Pacers.
(Courtesy of Eddie Gill)
Eddie Gill’s senior yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
Girls Basketball
Michaela Onyenwere graduated Grandview High School in the class of 2017. The young Onyenwere had one of the best high school basketball careers in Colorado history, which culminated in a senior year state championship (the first in Grandview girls basketball history). The All-Centennial League first team pick was Aurora’s first McDonald’s All-American. She was awarded the Colorado’s Gatorade Player of the Year Award for three straight years during high school. Onyenwere signed with a major Division I program at UCLA, and in her first year she was named a first team All-PAC 12 player.
Regis Jesuit Girls Division basketball player, Francesca Belibi, became the first girl to dunk in a Colorado high school game. In February 2019 Belibi performed the first alley-oop dunk by a female in a sanctioned girls basketball game, including the WNBA. Initially a tennis player at Regis Jesuit. Belibi caught the eye of the girls basketball coach when she dunked a volleyball while playing around in open gym. Transitioning to basketball took time, but Belibi is considered by many basketball scouts a “once in a generation natural talent,” according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Belibi will attend and play basketball at Stanford University in 2019. The Aurora student is already a part of the Basketball Hall of Fame as a senior in high school and been named a 2019 All-American basketball player.
Francesca Belibi Regis Jesuit High School Michaela Onyenwere Grandview High School
Belibi dunking the basketball during a game against Grandview High School.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Onyenwere taking a jump shot while being defended by Belibi.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Onyenwere going up for a layup during a game against Regis Jesuit.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Football
Joel Steed Hinkley High School
Joel Steed graduated Hinkley High School in 1987. The 6’2 300 lbs. defensive tackle was described by his high school coach’s as “superhuman,” and he went by the nickname “The Fridge” according to his high school yearbook. As a senior, he was awarded the honor of defensive MVP and first team All-Colorado. Steed also was a letterman in lacrosse and track and field while at Hinkley. After leaving Aurora he played for the University of Colorado’s football team from 1989 to 1991. Steed was a two-time first-team All-Big Eight performer and was a part of CU’s 1990 national championship team. He graduated CU with a degree in both sociology and black studies in 1992. The defensive lineman from Hinkley was drafted by the Pittsburg Steelers in the 1992 NFL draft. He played for the Steelers until 1999, appearing in 115 games, competed in Super Bowl XXX and was selected to the 1997 NFL Pro Bowl.
Joel Steed’s senior yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
The 1986-1987 varsity football team photo. Steed is located in the 6th row, third from the left.
(Courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
Volleyball
2015 State Championship cherokee trail high School
In 2015, the Cherokee Trail High School volleyball team finished with a 24-4 record, won its first Centennial League volleyball title, won its first match in state tournament play and capped off their season with a 2015 Class 5A state championship. The success of the team was impressive on its own merits, yet it was the adversity the team faced off the court that made their accomplishments extraordinary. The Cougar volleyball team experienced a devastating loss of their premier athlete, Celeste James, who passed away unexpectedly. Additionally, one of their key players suffered a catastrophic knee injury and couldn’t play the rest of the season. The volleyball girls rallied together and won their championship for their fallen and injured teammates.
The team celebrating together during the state championship match.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
The girls rejoice after an important point during playoff play.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
After winning their state title, the team emotionally pointed to the heavens in honor of their lost teammate Celeste James.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Boys Tennis
TFour-Time State Championship Winners
Regis Jesuit High school
he Regis Jesuit boys tennis team has won four state titles in its history, including the most recent in October 2018. Their victory in 2018 came over tennis powerhouse Cherry Creek High School by a margin of 11 points. The Cherry Creek High School Bruins have claimed a remarkable 42 championships, a Colorado state record. The Regis Jesuit tennis team won their previous championships in 2010, 2000 and 1991. Freshman singles player Conor Kaczmarczyk and senior Kosta Garger won individual state championships in 2018. Additionally, the doubles team of senior Evan Nuss and junior Emilio Gonzalez-Cruz also claimed individual titles for Regis on their way to the 2018 team championship.
Regis sophomore Morgan Schilling competing for the state singles title. Schilling came in second behind a Chatfield High School senior, Christian Holmes.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Members of the Regis Jesuit High School boys tennis team holding the state championship trophy in October 2018.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Girls Tennis
PAtti Urban
Smoky Hill High School
Smoky Hill High School 1988 graduate, Patricia “Patti” Urban, was one of the most accomplished tennis players in Aurora high school athletic history. Urban was a three-time singles state champion in 1985, 1986 and 1987. She was named the 1986 and 1987 Dr. Pepper Colorado Most Valuable Player and was nationally recognized as an All-American in 1986, 1987 and 1988. During her attempt to become the first female tennis player to win four straight singles state titles her senior year, Urban came up short by losing in the semi-finals. This was her first loss in 62 consecutive matches and her first loss of her prep career. The shock of losing lingered into her consolation match, finishing 4th overall in state. She finished her high school career with a 62 – 2 record, her only losses coming in her final two matches. The young tennis star was honored by the Sportswomen of Colorado in 1988. Additionally, she won a bronze medal in doubles at the 1987 U.S. Olympic Festival (an amateur multi-sport event held in the years between Olympic Games). After leaving Smoky Hill Urban went on to play tennis for Brigham Young University in Utah.
Patti Urban during her forehand stroke in 1987.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Boys Golf Spencer Painton Regis High School
Spencer Painton graduated Regis Jesuit High School in the class of 2014. During high school, Painton had a remarkable golf career. The young athlete was the 2013 individual Class 5A state champion and helped lead the Raiders to their fourth consecutive state title. He was named the 2013 Colorado Junior Golf Association’s Player of the Year. In 2012, his junior year, he finished second in the state tournament behind fellow classmate Cole Cunningham. Painton was named to the All-Colorado golf team for both 2012 and 2013. After high school, the former Raider was recruited by the University of Kansas and then played for the University of Colorado’s golf team his sophomore through senior year. Regis Jesuit’s boys golf program has amassed eight state titles, with the most recent coming in 2017.
Spencer Painton pumping his fist after finishing his first round 6 under par during the 2013 state championship tournament.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Members of the Regis Jesuit boys golf team holding the state championship trophy.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Girls Golf
State Championship Winners
Overland high School
Overland High School’s girls golf program won the state title both in 2010 and again in 2011. Elite golfer Somin Lee won the girls Class 5A state title for the Trailblazers in 2010. Lee was considered by many to be the best golfer in the state of Colorado as she entered her senior year. The young golfer competed in local and national tournaments throughout her high school career and won or came in as the runner-up in the vast majority of competitions. In the spring of 2011, it was a fellow classmate at Overland, Seung Ha Choi, who dethroned the presumptive Class 5A champion Lee. Choi’s victory was an unexpected upset. Lee’s and Choi’s championships in back-to-back years was only the second time in state history a Class 5A school has accomplished such a feat (Skyline High School being the first to do so in 2004 and 2005).
In addition to winning the 2010 Class 5A state title, Somin Lee had three-straight top six results at the state tournament between her sophomore and senior years and earned Aurora Sentinel All-City honors four years in a row. Lee went on to play collegiately at Pepperdine University in California.
Seung Ha Choi, in white, posing with her coaches after winning the 2011 Class 5A girls golf state title.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Ice Hockey
John Grahame Ice Hockey in Aurora
Overland High School class of 1993 graduate, John Grahame, played 14 years of professional hockey. John Grahame was one of two sons to what is considered hockey royalty. His mother, Charlotte, works in the Colorado Avalanche front office and has been a part of two Stanley Cup clubs. John’s father, Ron Grahame, played professional hockey for eight years and was a standout player at the University of Denver where he is the current athletic director. John Grahame played goalie and won the Calder Cup with the Providence Bruins in 1999 and the Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lighting in 2004. Charlotte and John are the only mother-son combination to have their names on the Stanley Cup in NHL history.
Ice Hockey saw prominence in Aurora between 1977 and 1988 when Cherry Creek won six state championships, but was dropped as a program in the late 1980s. During the interim years, Regis Jesuit High School was the sole institution to offer a hockey program in Aurora beyond club teams. In 2012, the Cherry Creek School District started a high school ice hockey team composed of Aurora students.
The Regis Jesuit hockey team has won six state titles. Their most recent came in 2019. Pictured here is the 2009 club celebrating a state championship.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Field Hockey
1999 State Championship Team
Smoky Hill High School
The 1999 Smoky Hill girls field hockey team became the first Aurora-based field hockey team to win the state title. The sport of girls field hockey became sanctioned for its inaugural season in 1997 by CHSAA. In the early years of the sport, Smoky Hill’s girls were a perennial force to be reckoned with by other clubs. After their 1999 state championship, the high school was state runners-up both in 2000 and 2001.
championship game against Kent Denver School by a score of 4 – 2.
(Courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Field hockey’s origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, India and Pakistan. Depictions of field hockey can be seen in Egyptian tombs that are 4,000 years old.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Members of the 1999 field hockey team competing for position during a match.
(Courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
The Regis Jesuit girls field hockey team became the second Aurora-based high school to win the state championship in October 2019.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Boys Soccer
Matt Jordan
Overland high School
Overland High School class of 1994 graduate, Matt Jordan, was an accomplished athlete in high school, college and professionally. The young soccer goaltender led the Overland Trailblazers to the state semifinals in 1992 and to the quarter finals in 1993. Jordan was a first team All-Centennial League goaltender, a first team All-State player and the 1994 Colorado High School Player of the Year. While in high school, Jordan also had a successful basketball career. He was awarded All-Centennial and All-State honors in basketball as well as in soccer. After leaving Aurora, Jordan played soccer for Clemson University where he garnered All-American honors. Jordan had a 13-year career in Major League Soccer after being drafted in 1998. In 2006, Jordan became the first hometown signee of the Colorado Rapids and helped them advance to the Conference Playoff Final later that year. He is currently the Technical Director and General Manager for the Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer.
A team picture of the Overland soccer club in 1991.
(Courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
Matt Jordan’s 1991 yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
Jordan as a goaltender for the Montreal Impact. He played four seasons for Montreal and was named the Most Valuable Player in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship in 2008.
(Courtesy of Long Bomb, Wiki Commons)
Girls Soccer
2018 state championship Team Grandview High School
In the 2018 – 2019 season, the Grandview girls soccer team won the Class 5A state championship. The girls beat the Broomfield Eagles by a score of 1-0 in overtime at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Both teams representing Class 5A play in 2018 fell short in the 2017 semifinals. The most recent win was the Wolves’ third state title in the last four academic school years, and the school’s fourth state title for the girls program. Grandview has brought home the trophy in 2008, 2015, 2016 and 2018.
Members of the Grandview soccer team embrace during a playoff win in May 2018.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
The team rejoicing after being handed the CHSAA trophy The Grandview Wolves team photo with their newly acquired after their 1-0 overtime win in the state title game.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Lacrosse
Four-time State Championship Team
TRegis Jesuit High School
he 2018 Regis Jesuit High School boys lacrosse team capped off their season with a Class 5A state championship. Their victory came over the Kent Denver Sun Devils by a score of 10-4. The Regis program experienced a devastating defeat the year before to the Cherry Creek High School lacrosse team during the 2017 championship match. With the 2018 title, the Regis Jesuit Raiders now have four lacrosse state championships in their trophy case. The Regis program has won the championship in 2011, 2014, 2016 and 2018, and went to the finals the last five consecutive seasons. The Raiders were state runners-up five different times, losing to Cherry Creek High School three of the five times. The 2018 club finished the season undefeated against Colorado teams.
Regis Jesuit boys lacrosse teammates playing defense during the 2018 playoffs.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Members of the Raider’s lacrosse team hoist a teammate and the state title trophy in the spring of 2018.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
All 6 high schools in Aurora Public Schools play lacrosse, boys and girls, as a team based out of Rangeview High School.
(Courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Spirit
The Eaglecrest High School cheerleading program has one of the best winning traditions in school history. The Raptors have won nine state championships in cheerleading during its 29-year history. The most recent title came in 2015, the previous wins were in 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2003 and 2008.
Eaglecrest’s biggest competition is a neighboring school in Aurora, Grandview High School. Grandview has won 21 Class 5A state championships, including the most recent 2018-2019 title.
CHSAA’s cheerleading, or spirit, competitions are judged in categories such as crowd leading, stunts, incorporating props and other technical skills.
Gateway High School Cheerleading
Eaglecrest cheerleaders performing at the state championships.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
The Raptor’s spirit team awaiting the results at the state tournament.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Grandview High School’s 12 championships in cheerleading represent the most state titles for any school in Colorado history. Eaglecrest High School is tied for fourth on that list.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
State Championship teams
Aurora Central school
cs
Boys Gymnastics Gymnasti
Aurora Central High School boy’s gymnastic team was the first amongst all athletic programs in school history to win a state title in 1960. The victory was the first of many subsequent titles Central would win in boys gymnastics. The Trojans would go on to win a sting of championships in 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1967, 1972, 1978 and 1980.
Six members of the Aurora Central team performing an impressive maneuver. (Courtesy of Auorra Central High School yearbook)
A member of the 1966 gymnastics team performing a routine on the rings.
(Courtesy of Auorra Central High School yearbook)
A gymnast from the 1967 state champion team performing a floor routine.
(Courtesy of Auorra Central High School yearbook)
The 1960 championship boys gymnastics team.
(Courtesy of Auorra Central High School yearbook)
Girls Gymnastics
State Championship Winners
OOverland High School
verland High School’s co-op women's gymnastics team is made up from seven high schools across Aurora and the surrounding area. As a team, they won the Colorado Class 5A state championship in 2014, 2013, 2011 and 2009, as well as the Class 3A championship in 1984. The team has also featured several champions in individual events. Under the direction of Coach Lisa Sparrow, the team has seen perennial success. Even during the non-championship seasons, the team has had a strong winning tradition, and on a few occasions, just barely missed the state title by a few points.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oaks, Sentinel Colorado)
Missy Franklin Missy Franklin
Melissa “Missy” Franklin started swim classes at the age of five. It became apparent by the age of 13 that Franklin was a standout talent in the pool. In 2008, she unsuccessfully competed at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Omaha, Neb. By the time she enrolled in Aurora’s Regis Jesuit High School she was an elite swimmer. In 2012, she qualified and competed in the 2012 London Summer Olympics. There, Franklin was awarded four gold medals and a bronze. Due to her success she earned the Swimming World's World Swimmer of the Year and the American Swimmer of the Year award in 2012. By the time Franklin graduated from Regis Jesuit in 2013, she possessed half of the CHSAA records for high school swimmers. In all, Franklin has won twenty-seven medals in international competition: acquired in the Olympics, the World Championships, the short course World Championships, and the Pan Pacific Championships. Franklin retired from swimming in 2018 and continues to be one of the most successful swimmers in the state of Colorado’s history.
CClark Smith
lark Smith graduated from Regis Jesuit High School in the class of 2013. While in high school Smith won 10 state championships in swimming, including five individual championships and the rest in relay competitions. Smith came within .04 seconds of breaking the National High School record in the 100 butterfly, and was the number one prospect in the state of Colorado and the seventh-ranked recruit in the country. He attended the University of Texas after graduating. In 2015, he won the NCAA Championships in the 500 yard freestyle. In 2016, he competed in the Rio Summer Olympic games where he won gold as part of a relay team.
Boys Track & Field
Pat MansonAurora Central High School
Patrick Manson graduated Aurora Central High School in the class of 1986. The accomplished pole vaulter was involved with several extracurricular activities in high school. Mason participated in wrestling, ski club, German club, student government, volleyball club, National Honors Society (NHS), indoor and outdoor soccer, letterman’s club and track and field. He was the NHS president and class of 1986 vice president his senior year. Manson was the captain of the soccer team his senior year and the captain of the track team his junior and senior year. His academic successes were equally as impressive. Manson was named a co-valedictorian in 1986, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. It was track and field where Manson really shined. He began track his freshman year as a long jumper, and soon started practicing pole vaulting. By his junior year, Manson was breaking school, state and national indoor pole vaulting records. As an all-around athlete, he was able to win a state title in sprint relays on top of his pole vaulting victories. After high school Manson continued to pole vault professionally. Among his accolades, Manson was ranked #1 in the world, a three-time gold medalist at the Pan American Games, two-time world champion, five-time Olympic trails competitor and a world record holder.
Manson’s class of 1986 senior yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
Manson pole vaulting at the 1986 Junior Olympic Nationals.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Manson running during the 4 x 100 relay at the 1986 state track meet. His relay team won the race and the state championship.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Girls Track & Field
Rhonda Blanford-Green
Aurora Central High School
Rhonda Blanford–Green graduated from Aurora Central High School in the class of 1981. Athletically, she competed on the dance team, cheer squad, volleyball team and was a standout runner in track and field. Her senior year Blanford–Green set several school and state records. Four school records have yet to be beaten. She led her team to the first of many 1980s girls track and field state titles. The Trojans won state in girls track in 1981, 1982, 1987, 1988, and 1989. After high school Blanford-Green competed at the University of Nebraska where she won two national titles in hurdling and was an 11-time All-American. She qualified for the U.S. Olympic team both in 1984 and 1988, was named one of the University of Nebraska’s Top 25 Women in Sports, was the first African American female inductee into Sportswoman of Colorado, a member of the CHSAA Hall of Fame and honored at Central High as a “Legend” in 2003. Today, Blandford–Green is the Commissioner of CHSAA after serving as an educator and coach in the Aurora Public School system.
Blanford–Green’s volleyball photo circa 1980.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Blanford–Green’s senior yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Aurora Central High School girls track and field team celebrating a winning effort.
Girls Cross Country
Megan & Katelyn Kaltenbach
Smoky Hill high School
Megan Kaltenbach and her sister, Katelyn, were a dominant force in girls cross country in the early 2000s. The sisters both graduated from Smoky Hill High School, Megan in the class of 2003 and Katelyn in the class of 2005. Megan won the state title in cross country her freshman year, which was the first of four consecutive championships throughout her high school career. The young cross country star added 10 more state championships in track and field. Katelyn finished second to Megan by 0.2 of a second at the state meet as a sophomore in 2002. She won the championship as a junior, took the national title, starred at the prestigious Penn Relays and joined her sister in winning four big-school track titles in the same season (800, 1,600 and 3,200 meters, and as a member of the 3,200 relay). The dynamic duo garnered national press and they both went on to run for the University of North Carolina.
Megan Kaltenbach was inducted into the Colorado Women’s Sports Hall of Fame after winning 14 state titles in high school and becoming a two-time NCAA champion at UNC.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Katelyn Kaltenbach won the Foot Locker Cross Country National Championship in 2003.
(Courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
Boys Cross Country
1964 State Championship Team
William C. Hinkley high School
Hinkley’s first athletic state championship came in boys cross country in 1964. The race back then was half of the now standard 3.1 mile cross country distance. The 1964 Class II championship team was led by senior Wayne Henderson who won the individual title.
Wrestling
1983 State Championship
Aurora Central high School
The 1982-1983 Aurora Central High School wrestling team is the only Aurora wrestling program to win a team state championship in the city’s history. The varsity squad went undefeated and won the Centennial League Championship on their way to a state title. The Trojans sported seven wrestlers in the state tournament, most of which were seniors. Despite not winning a single individual championship, the team walked away with the collective state title. Shortly after the wrestling team’s success, the Trojan basketball team won a state championship, becoming the first school to accomplish both titles in the same year. As stated by the 1983 Aurora Central High School yearbook, “This year’s wrestling team went undefeated and proved to be the most powerful team Central has ever had. . . they will be remembered throughout the years as the best.”
Performing Arts Performing Arts
The performing arts allow students to explore their creativity and build confidence by performing for an audience. According to CHSAA’s Commissioner Rhonda Blanford- Green, “The vast majority of student participating in high school activities, are participating in music.” Many talented Aurora students have gone on to impressive careers in the performing arts, from Broadway musicals to rock bands. However, the benefits of the performing arts aren’t limited to the stage. The U.S. Department of Education found that students who participate in band have "significantly higher levels of mathematics proficiency by the time of graduation.” Through the performing arts, students engage their minds and learn skills that they will utilize the rest of their lives.
Overland High School’s production of “Bye Bye Birdie.” Leslie Arganch in the role of Kim MacAfee and George Butler as Conrad Birdie.
Hinkley High School’s marching band performing outdoors.
Marching Band
Whether performing at a halftime show, competing in a statewide competition or marching in a parade, the marching band can dazzle a crowd. Marching band is arguably the most visible aspect of a high school band program as they perform outside of the auditorium and typically at public events. The changing formations and movements to music requires continuous rehearsal and planning. Some marching bands practice the traditional regimental, almost military-style, formations. Others are embracing new concepts of movement by performing illusion-like maneuvers and pushing the boundaries of what is typically expected of a marching band. The physical requirements and time commitments that marching band members devote to the craft rivals, if not exceeds, athletes of any other prep sport.
A member of the Overland High School marching band playing the bass drum in 2007.
(Courtesy of Overland High School yearbook)
The Grandview High School marching band’s year book photo.
(Courtesy of Grandview High School yearbook)
Jazz Band
The traditional ensemble of a jazz band is made up of 17 students, but it can vary in size depending on participation. The band most commonly consists of two alto saxophones, two tenor saxophones, one Baritone Saxophone, four trombones, four trumpets, and a standard rhythm section of one guitar, one bass guitar, one piano, and one drum set. Sometimes there will be a vocalist or vocalists, while others are purely instrumental. Throughout the years, Aurora’s high schools have received high marks at numerous competitions and entertained the public at performances. A few jazz musicians have gone onto prominence such as Will Donato from Hinkley High School and Tia Fuller from Gateway High School.
The 2012 Grandview High School jazz band.
(Courtesy of Grandview High School yearbook)
The 2005 Aurora Central High School band.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Orchestra
High School orchestras are most commonly composed of bowed stringed instruments, percussion and wind and brass instruments. Aurora’s high schools vary in size, but a traditional orchestra consists of 100 musicians and may be accompanied by a chorus or be purely instrumental. Music selections are mostly of the classical variety, although modern selections are sometimes performed. Students who participate in this form of ensemble are taught innumerable skills. Students learn instrumental techniques, music reading, critical thinking skills and teamwork in a large group dynamic.
Students practicing their instruments at Eaglecrest High School in 2011.
The 2014 Grandview High School Orchestras.
(Courtesy of Grandview High School yearbook)
(Courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
The 2012-2013 Chamber Orchestra of Cherokee Trail High School.
(Courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
Choir
H
igh School choir is a co-curricular program that provides opportunities for students to learn music theory, improve their vocal talents and perform live in front of audiences. Most of Aurora’s high schools have a variety of choir programs for students to get involved in. Some of the programs offered include show choir, concert choir, women’s choir, men’s choir, chamber choir, acapella groups and many more. The vocal music programs can either perform for a live audience or compete with other schools. Since 2010, Aurora’s high schools have had 550 students selected to the All-State choir.
The 1973 Hinkley High School concert choir, adorned in concert robes, pose for their yearbook photo.
(Courtesy of William C. Hinkley High School yearbook)
The 2008 Cherokee Trail High School bella voce ensemble. Bella voce is an advanced all-women's chorus that performs with collegiate standards and expectations.
(Courtesy of Cherokee Trail High School yearbook)
Members of the 2011 Grandview High School jazz choir performing.
(Courtesy of Grandview High School yearbook)
Concert Band
From classical to contemporary, high school band engages students through the performance of written music. Within instrumental music, many schools offer jazz band, woodwind ensemble and percussion ensemble to name a few. Young instrumentalists have the opportunity to perform great musical works in front of an audience and participate in state-wide and regional competitions. Dedicated Aurora musicians can audition to perform in All-State and other state and national honor bands.
The Hinkley High School concert band of 1964.
(Courtesy of William C. Hinkley High School yearbook)
The Aurora Central High School concert band of 1968.
(Courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Musicals
A theatrical musical is a live performance, similar to a play, which incorporates songs, spoken dialogue, acting and dance. This style of performance allows students of varying skill sets to express themselves in their own unique ways. Dancers, singers, actors and tech specialists all find a home in a musical. Participating in a musical requires time, commitment and focused practice. Aurora’s high schools have produced numerous musicals throughout the years. Have you seen a musical at an Aurora high school? Did you perform in a musical while in school?
A senior in 2002 at Rangeview High School striking a pose before going on stage.
The 2014 Rangeview cast of the musical “Aida.”
A senior in 1998, adjusting stage lighting before the school’s musical. Theatre technicians are responsible for ensuring that the lighting and sound of theatre performances run smoothly and on time.
(Courtesy of Rangeview High School yearbook) (Courtesy of Rangeview High School yearbook) (Courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
Theater
Theater allows students to perform in front of an audience throughout the school year. From dramas to comedies, high school theater provides young thespians with the opportunity to grow as performers in diverse roles. Beyond acting, students work behind the scenes on set design, sound, lighting, costuming and even makeup. Theater requires hours of group rehearsals coupled with individual practice, intense focus and dedication. Theater programs can participate in state and national competitions and festivals including the Colorado Thespian Festival.
Cast
(Courtesy
The cast of the 2002 play “You Can’t Take It with You” at Aurora
(Courtesy
Two performers in the 2011 spring play at Eaglecrest High School (Courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook) members at Overland High School in 2009 performing “Romeo and Juliet,” by William Shakespeare. of Overland High School yearbook) Central High School. of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Robert Michael Pyle
Robert Michael Pyle graduated from Aurora Central High School in the class of 1965. The Auroran has had an illustrious academic career earning a Ph.D. in ecology and environmental studies from the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies. He has become a leading ecologist and lepidopterist (the study of moths and butterflies). Pyle has taught natural history seminars for many colleges and institutes around the world, has several publications and is an awarded author. Pyle was a founding member of the Xerces Society, a non-profit that focuses on protecting ecosystems and bio diversity as it relates to invertebrates.
Robert Pyle’s junior year picture in 1963.
(Photo courtesy of Aurora Central High School yearbook)
Will Donato
Will Donato graduated Hinkley High School in the class of 1974. While in Aurora, Donato was a standout saxophonist in the school band. Today, Donato is an internationally renowned smooth jazz composer, alto saxophonist and recording artist. His musical skills have allowed him to travel the world and perform in numerous prominent jazz festivals with well-known artists such as Earth, Wind and Fire. The musician has had his music featured in movie scores such as “Thelma and Louise,” “The Wedding Planner,” “Under the Boardwalk,” and “No Man’s Land.”
Donato (center) with other bandmates in 1972.Will Donato’s junior yearbook
(Photo courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
Okee Dokee Brothers Okee Dokee Brothers
J
ustin Lansing, class of 2003, and Joe Mailander, class of 2004, graduated from Regis Jesuit High School. Childhood best friends, Lansing and Mailander, formed the band The Okee Dokee Brothers. The band plays children’s music that has roots in American bluegrass. The Okee Dokee Brothers are three-time Grammy Award winning artists for their albums “Saddle Up,” “Through the Woods” and “Can you Canoe?”
According to the band, the duo, “record and perform family music with a goal to inspire children and their parents to get outside and get creative.”
A month-long trip down the Mississippi river was the inspiration behind the Okee Dokee Brothers' album “Can You Canoe?”
(Photo courtesy of Alex Johnson Photography)
Ahmad Terry Ahmad Terry
Two-time
Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist for the former Rocky Mountain News in Denver, Ahmad Terry, graduated from Rangeview High School in the class of 1993. Terry was given the prestigious award for his photographs in 2000 and again in 2003. He worked for the former publication between 1997 and 2007.
Ahmad Terry during his sophomore year at Rangeview High School.
(Photo courtesy of Rangeview High School yearbook)
a Fuller
Grammy-winning artist, Tia Fuller, graduated from Gateway High School in the class of 1994. During high school she was active in several extracurricular activities including marching band, National Honors Society, jazz band, student government, drumline, pom squad, symphony orchestra and several others. She excelled on the flute, saxophone and drums while at Gateway. After leaving Aurora, Fuller earned a bachelor’s degree in music at Spelman University in Atlanta, Ga. and a master’s degree in jazz pedagogy from the University of Colorado. In 2006, Fuller joined the all-female band for recording artist Beyoncé as a saxophonist. She has released five records and is an internationally known jazz musician.
Tia Fuller’s senior year photograph.
(Photo courtesy of Gateway High School yearbook)
Chris Broderick
Musician and songwriter Chris Broderick graduated Hinkley High School in the class of 1988. Broderick found an interest in the guitar at a young age and played all throughout his childhood. After high school he earned a degree in classical guitar music performance at the University of Denver's Lamont School of Music. Broderick developed a name for himself in the Denver music scene with bands like Grey Haven, Industrial Eden and Killing Time. Most prominently, Broderick was the lead guitarist for the thrash metal band Megadeth from 2008 to 2014. Today he plays in the band Act of Defiance with the former Megadeth drummer Shawn Drover.
Christopher Broderick Broderick performing with Megadeth at the No during his junior year at Sleep Til Festival in 2010. Hinkly High School in 1987.
(Photo courtesy of Hinkley High School yearbook)
Kelly Hansen
Kelly Hansen lived in Aurora for five years while a teenager. He attended Smoky Hill High School in the class of 1978, although he did not graduate. In the early 1980s Hansen helped found the band Hurricane. The band saw moderate success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He joined the band Foreigner in 2005 as their lead singer. Today, Hansen continues to perform with the band as their third front man.
Kelly Hansen in the 1977 Smoky Hill High School yearbook as a sophomore.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Lesley Chilcott
Academy Award winning documentarian, Lesley Chilcott, graduated from Smoky Hill High School in the class of 1986. While in high school, she participated in cross country, soccer, ski club, Future Business Leaders of America, peer counselling and many others. During her professional career she has been a part of many successful films and documentaries. Her 2006 release of “An Inconvenient Truth,” earned her an Academy Award.
Lesley Chilcott’s senior year photograph.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Bowen Yang
Accomplished stand-up comic and producer, Bowen Yang, graduated Smoky Hill High School in the class of 2008. During high school, Yang performed in the choir and was an active participant in the improv club. His senior year Yang was named homecoming king. After high school, he attended New York University and received a bachelor's degree in chemistry. Yang pursued a career in comedy and acting. His website states that, “Bowen Yang is a comedian, producer and formerly mediocre chemistry major.” Today he is a writer and performer on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” and a stand-up comic.
Yang, homecoming king, posing for a picture with the homecoming queen at the Friday night football game in 2007.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
His senior year class photo in 2008.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
Greg Spence
Greg Spence grew up in Aurora and graduated from Smoky Hill High School in the class of 1983. While in high school he was involved in several extracurricular activities. Spence participated in student government, basketball, football, lacrosse, track and field, chamber choir, theater, chess club, French club, newspaper staff and ski club. After leaving Smoky Hill he attended the University of Colorado for two years, then landed at New York University, completing a degree in film and journalism. Today, now in his 50s, Spence works as a producer for the widely popular HBO show “Game of Thrones.” Earlier in his career, he directed and wrote several movies and TV series including “Children of the Corn: The Gathering and The Prophecy II.”
Greg Spence in his senior year class photo in 1983.
(Photo courtesy of Smoky Hill High School yearbook)
CNeyla Pekarek
ellist Neyla Pekarek graduated from Overland High School where she participated in the school’s orchestra among other activates. She began playing the cello at age of nine and was introduced to a wide range of music at an early age. After high school she went to the University of Northern Colorado and majored in music education. After responding to a Craigslist ad, Pekarek joined the Grammy Award-winning band The Lumineers. Neyla and the band have performed on the Grammys, “Saturday Night Live” and to a sellout crowd at Red Rocks. In October 2018 she left The Lumineers to purse a solo career.
Neyla Pekarek performing with The Lumineers in 2012.
(Photo courtesy of Sachyn Mital)
GGregory Treco Gregory Treco
regory Treco graduated from Eaglecrest High School and has gone on to be an acclaimed actor appearing in the off-Broadway production of “Hamilton.” In high school, Gregory performed on the national stage in the leading role of “Chess” and won a scholarship for outstanding acting. One of his most noteable high school performances according to his former Eaglecrest instructor, Jennifer Condreay, was in the role of Che Guevara in the production of ‘Evita.’” In “Hamilton,” Gregory has performed alongside his younger brother Mathenee in the role of Aaron Burr.
Gregory Treco graduated from Eaglecrest High School in the class of 1998.
(Photo courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
Mathenee Trec0
Mathenee Treco graduated from Eaglecrest High School in 2005. Like his older brother, he has also established himself in the acting world going on to perform in the off-Broadway production of “Hamilton.” Alongside his brother, Gregory, Mathenee played the roles of James Madison and Hercules Mulligan. Mathenee participated in the performing arts in high school and has had a successful career as a singer, songwriter and actor. Mathenee attributes his career and passion for acting to his teachers at Eaglecrest who allowed him to explore his talents.
Mathenee Treco graduated from Eaglecrest High School in the class of 2005.
(Photo courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
Andy Kelso Andy Kelso
Andy Kelso was raised in Aurora and graduated from Eaglecrest High School in the class of 1998. During high school, Kelso was active in the performing arts and was a standout vocalist. Kelso went on to Colorado State before transferring to the University of Northern Colorado where he graduated from the School of Theatre Arts and Dance in 2002. As a professional, Kelso has had many prominent roles in film, TV and on the stage. Movies he has performed in include “Good Girls Revolt” (2015), “Swept” (2015) and “The Producers” (2005). Since 2017, he was been playing the lead role of Charlie Price in the Broadway production of “Kinky Boots.” Other Broadway shows Kelso has performed in include “Mamma Mia,” “Rent” and “Wicked.”
Andy Kelso’s class of 1998 yearbook photo.
(Photo courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
Rachel Rincione Rachel Rincione
Rachel Rincione graduated Eaglecrest
High School in the class of 1998. During high school she was very active in the performing arts. Her theatre instructor described her as follows, “With her stunning operatic voice, she had extraordinary presence on stage. She also played many leads, among the most memorable was Florence in ‘Chess’ which was featured on the national stage for Thespians.” The Thespians is an honor society for high school theatre students in which they get invited to perform at the International Thespian Conference.
After leaving Aurora, Rincione went to Chapman University in California. Her performing arts portfolio includes “Camelot” at Goodspeed Opera House and “Les Miserables” on Broadway.
Rincione’s 2019 professional Her class of 1998 senior headshot. yearbook photo.
(Photo courtesy of Rachel Rincione)(Photo courtesy of Eaglecrest High School yearbook)
Robotics Robotics
Every school’s robotics club is a little different, but generally robotics clubs allow students to design, fabricate and operate robots in a group atmosphere. The club has a strong emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Student participants get hands-on experiences building the robots and coding experience while designing the software. Occasionally students compete at competitions against other schools’ robots in a series of specific challenges.
Visual Arts & Art Club Visual Arts & Art Club
Visual arts and art club is more than the run-of-the-mill art class. Students who participate in the visual arts club get experience by interacting with other talented students as well as local artists to learn new and creative ways to make art. Whether drawing, designing or sculpting, Aurora-based high school students are creating amazing pieces of art.
ESports
In 2019, CHSAA authorized the pilot program of ESports making it an official high school sport. ESports is competitive video game play between high schoolers on multiple platforms. CHSAA supports the argument that ESports is an inclusive activity that does not discriminate physically handicapped students from getting involved and competing.
Thespian & ThespianClubDrama ClubDrama
Students passionate about theater can explore their talents further through their school’s drama and thespian clubs. Drama club is a great way for beginners to get their feet wet in acting and theater tech. Some Aurora high schools, like Overland High School, require a certain number of hours dedicated to theater activities to join their elite thespian club. Each high school’s drama club is structured differently—some focus heavily on acting, while others provide students with opportunities in directing, lighting, sound, stage management, set construction, costumes, props, makeup and even playwriting.
Speech & Speech(Forensics)Debate (Forensics)Debate
Forensics speech and debate is a CHSAA-regulated activity where students compete in a variety of events related to the spoken word. The CHSAA mission in speech and debate “. . . is to provide opportunities and assist its participants in developing diverse communication skills while competing at the highest levels in high school speech and debate. The purpose of this is to instill discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, honesty and integrity in a highly specialized activity.”
Student Government Student Government
Student government is a group of students who work with the school administration on the student body’s behalf, to enact policy revisions, plan activities, events and promote student-related issues. Commonly the student government is elected by their peers, but sometimes they are appointed. Student government is a great way to get involved and learn leadership skills.
Yearbook
In yearbook club students’ research, design and promote the yearbook. Among the many benefits of involvement, yearbook club reinforces participants’ writing and reporting skills. Club members get to know the whole student body via profiles in the yearbook, get involved with other clubs and activities and work as a team to accomplish the yearly publication.
A Club 1939
Aurora Central High School
Pep Club 1939 Aurora Central High School
Film Club 1979 Hinkley High School
Newspaper Club 1998 Smoky Hill High School
Multicultural Club 2009 Cherokee Trail High School
Muslim Student Alliance 2012 Grandview High School
Indian Dance Club 2009 Smoky Hill High School
Sci-Fi Adventure Club 1984 Rangeview High School
Yearbook Club 2012 Vista Peak Preparatory
1988 Rangeview High School
Ski Club
Student Council
Vista Peak Preparatory
Color Guard
1979 Hinkley High school
Fishing Club 1979 Hinkley High School
Rocket Club 1979 Hinkley High School
Fellowship of Christian Athletes 1980 Gateway High School
Fine Art Club 1980 Gateway High School
Rodeo Club 1982
Aurora Central High School
Future Business Leaders of America 1993 Gateway High School
Environmental Action Club 1998 Eaglecrest High School
Youth Ending Hunger Club 1998 Eaglecrest High School
Sign Language Club 2001 Gateway High School
Ping Pong Club 2007 Overland High School
Speech & Debate 2009 Cherokee Trail High School
Chess Club 2007 Overland High School
Improv Club 2008 Smoky Hill High School
Future Homemakers of America
1991
Rangeview High School
Mickey Mouse Club 1973 Hinkley High school
Math Club 2009 Cherokee Trail High School
Medical Careers Club 2012 Grandview High School
Peer Counseling 2012 Grandview High School
Thespians 2012 Grandview High School
Creative Writing Club 2013 Cherokee Trail High School
Colorado High School Activities Association
The Aurora-based Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) regulates the interscholastic high school activities in the state of Colorado. Activities that CHSAA governs include 16 unique sports, music competitions, student councils and spirit. As of 2018 there were 359 member schools, encompassing 283,371 students, as part of CHSAA’s prevue. CHSAA was founded in 1921 and will be celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2021. CHSAA’s Commissioner Rhonda Blanford–Green described the association as “an educationally-based organization that provides opportunity to students to participate in activities and events.” In addition to its organizing, regulating and promoting responsibilities, the association manages an ongoing CHSAA Hall of Fame, tracks state records for activities and does independent reporting and journalism. All Aurora-based schools highlighted in “Hometown Pride” are participating members in CHSAA.
Referees Terry Reed
Terry Reed moved to Aurora in 1975 and has been a referee for CHSAA for the last 33 years. Reed found an interest in refereeing after sustaining an injury in baseball. He sought to stay involved with sports and began umpiring high school baseball and softball after his injury. At the time he saw it as a way to make extra money in order to help fund his daughters’ admission to college, yet later found a passion for the profession. In addition to officiating at the ball park, Reed is a referee for high school basketball games. He emphasized the importance of relationship building with coaches, players and other officials. Reed explained, “I think I know almost 90% of the baseball and softball coaches in this state. It makes it a lot easier and enjoyable when you have that mutual trust with coaches and players.” The Aurora official has umpired 3 state baseball games, 3 state softball games and refereed an elite 8 round of basketball at the state tournament. Beyond his work with CHSAA, Reed has worked for the city of Aurora’s Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces sports leagues throughout his career.
Terry Reed, center, with two other CHSAA umpires before the Class 2A state championship game in Pueblo, Colo.
On average, over the previous decade, CHSAA has employed more than 5,000 officials per year which includes all sports from basketball to field hockey.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)U
Unified Sports
nified Sports is a new and developing program in Aurora’s high schools and across the state of Colorado. Unified Sports joins people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. According to the Special Olympics organization, “It was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.” In February 2019, a Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) committee approved the foundation of the first Unified Sports pilot program in unified bowling. Previously, schools organized special competitions that featured unified play. Now, as a CHSAA program, unified bowling will be on par with other high school activities statewide. The unified programs in Colorado can be traced to the Geoffrey Zaragoza Special Olympics 100M dash. The race is an annual tradition at the CHSAA state track meet that focuses on inclusive participation for those with special needs and is a perennial crowd favorite at the statewide event.
Athletes of Grandview High School’s unified basketball team play a game for the home crowd.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)
The Regis Jesuit High School unified basketball team huddles together before playing a game in December 2017.
(Photo courtesy of Courtney Oakes, Sentinel Colorado)