The Ridge by Blue Ridge School

The

Ridge SPRING 2013

BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL

HEADMASTER TRIP DARRIN

Greetings from St. George!

As of this writing, the boys are enjoying a well-deserved Headmaster’s Day. Those of you who’ve experienced the BRS education for yourself know that there are no ‘snow days’ at a boarding school. At key times throughout the year, when behavior, attitude and effort warrant such a reward, the leader team and I call for a day off. You can imagine the reaction we receive from students; if I could only bottle unfettered joy. The boys deserved this day of rest. We’re in the middle of an excellent school year: • The varsity football team won the state championship – the School’s first state championship since 1994. • Student retention is strong. The number of students lost to dismissal/withdrawal is down from 12% of the student body last year to 4% this year. This is largely due to Kevin Miller’s leadership of our academic programs and Vinton Bruton’s leadership of the ‘other half’ of the BRS education: co-curricular programs, everything from residential life to athletic programs to the arts. Our students are vested in their education and well-connected with faculty members with whom they’ve established strong relationships. • College acceptances are streaming in. The list at present includes the University of Notre Dame and the University of Virginia. (See the entire list on page 3). • Interest in a BRS education is strong; the admissions team is on track to open the 2013-2014 school year with 20% higher enrollment. What’s more important is the fact that all of these boys will be ‘mission-appropriate’ young men of character and potential, just as Blue Ridge boys have been for generations. • Our business office is keeping us on track for a balanced budget. We take cost control and energy efficiency seriously, funneling maximum funds to academic and co-curricular programs. • Our advancement team has raised more than $1.5M this year in total giving, an increase of more than 40% from this point last year. • Construction of the first home in the new BRS Faculty Commons will begin in the summer, bringing much-needed new residential space for faculty and families. • Plans for the Baron Athletic Complex continue to move forward, with more than 50% of the total funding now committed. • BRS is offering two summer programs this year, the School’s first since the 1980’s.

Headmaster Trip Darrin

• Thanks to our new Director of Communications, Hilde Keldermans, our website and social media presence has never been better. “Like” us on www.facebook.com/blueridgeschool and receive current news and updates from the School, alumni, parents, and students. • We’ve added course offerings in foreign languages, IT, public speaking, and creative writing. New co-curricular programs in music, the outdoors, and drama help round out the experience for our students. • Looking ahead to the future, Dr. Miller is working on the development of online course offerings, one of several ideas we are studying. Your continued support of Blue Ridge School is of vital importance. I hope you have the chance to visit campus to see for yourself the exciting things underway. We look forward to seeing you on the Ridge.

Contents Spring Ridge 2013

Powerful Classroom Tools

College Acceptances

Building a Championship Team

A Winning Year: Let’s Finish Strong

Moving Forward: Advancement Updates

Wrestling: A Team with Class A Tough Year for A Great Team: Basketball Season Wrap-Up Lacrosse Season Preview

11 12

Indoor Soccer Season

Business Manager: Troy Nichols

A Positive Influence: Mike Jamrozek

The Epitome of a Blue Ridge Gentlemen: Rory Bosek ‘04 15 Save the Date for Spring Weekend

In Memoriam

17 ADMINISTRATION William A. Darrin III, Headmaster

We focus on helping boys reach their potential through personalized, structured, innovative learning practices in a college preparatory, all-boarding community. Blue Ridge School admits qualified young men of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. Blue Ridge School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial assistance and loan programs, athletic and other administered programs.

Dr. Kevin Miller, Associate Headmaster for Academics D. Franklin Daniels, Jr., Assistant Headmaster for Advancement Vinton Bruton, Assistant Headmaster for Co-curricular Programs

The Ridge:

Editor/Graphic Designer: Hilde Keldermans Writers: Hilde Keldermans, John Hetzel, Rory Bosek ‘04, Pete Bonds Photography: Michael Hallstrom (cover), Hilde Keldermans

www.BlueRidgeSchool.com

From left are Sam Ross, Michael Gerry, Mr. Pete Bonds, and José Espinoza in their 9th grade English class.

Powerful Classroom Tools Thanks to the generosity of an alumnus of Blue Ridge School, our Academic Department was able to purchase Nooks and iPads to test the feasibility of their use in the classroom. The English Department teachers are always searching for new and innovative ways to engage their students with the curriculum they teach and were eager to incorporate the use of Nooks and iPads into their lessons. They are finding great success.

The seniors in Mr. John Young’s Humanities class have been making use of the Nook e-Reader for about three months. Mr. Young downloads novels and a considerable number of short stories so that he makes sure an entire year’s worth of readings is readily available and easily carried in one compact “carrying case.” At the end of the year, the boys will return their e–Readers to the school, saving the cost of purchasing the novels and short story collections all over again. “Thus far, my students have very much enjoyed the portability of their Nooks as well as the ability to read, make notes, and mark passages with a tap and drag of their finger,” says Mr. Young. “In this day and age, teenagers are so plugged into the computerized world, that reading from a screen is a more familiar and comfortable experience than from the printed pages of a book,” explains Mr. Young. “I find that many of my students prefer to read on the e-readers because they can instantly look up any

word with which they are unfamiliar by using the Nook’s dictionary tool,” says Mr. Young. “The ability to create the proper backlighting and readable typesize is yet another plus,” he says. “We are just beginning to explore the possibilities of this new format for textbooks. It shows promise and has elicited a positive response from my students,” sums up Mr. Young. Mr. Pete Bonds reports success using iPads in his Freshman English class. “The iPads allow me to create lessons that are more interactive and hands-on, and they are an excellent outlet for the boys’ creativity,” says Mr. Bonds who adds: “Most recently I had the students use the iPads to create ‘trailers’, similar to what you would see for a blockbuster movie, for the novels that we read this trimester. The assignment forced them to think in a creative way about the major themes in these works that would cause someone to be interested in reading them. It was a great way to supplement class discussion.” “These tablets are powerful educational tools that will help our teachers in doing what they do better than anything else: creating lessons designed to connect with teenage boys,” says Dr. Kevin Miller, Associate Headmaster for Academics. “The benefits our boys get from hands-on learning cannot be overstated.”

CLASS OF 2013 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES MANDARIN AND PORTUGUESE OFFERED THIS YEAR Pictured above is Ms. Hairuo Yi and her first year Mandarin students. Seniors Mujahid Fricke, David Kim, Shawn Steen, Ms. Yi, Jimmy Connor, Asa Thomas, and Isaac King. Ms. Yi has two full classes taking Mandarin. Pictured below are Mrs. Marcia Kozloski and her Portuguese student, JosĂŠ Espinoza. Mrs. Kozloski has taught Spanish at Blue Ridge since 2001 and is the Chair of our Foreign Language Department. She has taught ESL, Spanish and Portuguese in the U.S. and Brazil.

College and university acceptances for the Class of 2013 (as of March 27, 2013) Appalachian State University Arizona State University Auburn University Belmont University Bridgewater College Colby-Sawyer College Davis & Elkins College Delaware Valley College Emory & Henry College Ferrum College Greensboro College Guilford College Hampden-Sydney College

Iowa State University Juniata College Kingston University London Lake Erie College Louisiana State University Miami University Otterbein University Presbyterian College Roanoke College School of the Visual Arts Seattle Pacific University St. Andrews Presbyterian College Stetson University Stony Brook University SUNY Syracuse University University of California, Davis University of California, Santa Barbara University of Colorado, Boulder University of Denver University of Houston University of Iowa University of Northern Colorado University of Notre Dame University of Portland University of the Pacific University of Vermont University of Virginia University of Mississippi University of San Francisco West Virginia University

Building a Championship Team

The 2012 VISAA State Football Champions, standing from left, are Coach Tim Thomas, Jordan Edelman, Darryl Smith, Terrel Credle, Leon Straus, Yuichi Isaka, Justin Sylvester is standing behind Coach Orlando Patterson, Ari Gamerman, Kinge Ndanga, Ryan Etheridge, Tristan Allen, Tyler Pace Zach Bridges, Shawn Steen, Charles Jones, Sam Kalinski. In the front, from left, are Nate Johnson, Jared Arntzen, Max Morgan, Cody Pegram, Paul Voutsas, and Ethan Warrick.

T by John Hetzel

The Barons’ 2012 Division II State Football Championship is a testament to determination and unity of purpose. BRS’s studentathletes overcame a variety of obstacles to earn the championship title this fall - using the all-boys, all-boarding culture as an edge over competitors who often had larger enrollments.

boys are in close proximity to each other for weeks on end attending classes, sharing meals, engaging one another on outings and in their free time. The constant contact keeps the team focused on tasks at hand, fostering a singleness of purpose and loyalty to the common cause.

Ironically, the challenge of being a small school with a small football team turns out to be one of the factors that helped push BRS to the top. A small team ensures that teammates are more committed to working with each other to achieve personal and team goals, and more likely to buy into the coaches’ directions.

Coach Patterson also points out the value that collective mental toughness contributes to winning a championship. He explains that BRS cultivates this attribute in its young men. “Mental toughness played a huge role in our championship. The young men here learn that many obstacles will be in their way while on the path to success (both on and off the field). Being proactive instead of reactive when facing those obstacles allows them to see that if they take care of things before they become a big deal, there is more time to enjoy what matters most, winning.”

Head Coach Orlando Patterson explains: “With small numbers on a football team, each athlete is counted on to do a job. Unparalleled hard work, dedication, and the will to win characterize this year’s team. The amount of work in the weight room, spring running, and disciplined growth over the summer put the Barons in a position to make a successful championship run.” In addition to the team’s hard work and dedication, Blue Ridge School’s all boarding environment creates an atmosphere where it is easy to collectively focus and live out team aspirations. The

To illustrate the point, the team overcame a plethora of hurdles throughout the season, including missing star players for the Championship game and semi-finals. Despite juggling roles, the 2012 Baron football team was made of sterner mettle and achieved its ultimate goal of winning the VISAA State Championship.

Sam Kalinski and Mr. Cory Woods

Tracy and Jared Arntzen

Cody Pegram, Sam Kalinski, and Shawn Steen

Junior Leon Straus: “ Everyone played for everyone and for the same reason —

Leon Straus Muji Fricke with his mother, Dijon Coss

to win a championship.” Senior Cody Pegram: “ We all battled through some adversity, but the guys were able to remain positive and focused on our goal.” Senior Muji Fricke: “ There is something to be said for the all boys, all boarding culture. The whole team bought in to the school’s ‘brother’s keeper’ philosophy and we stuck together both on and off the field.” Senior Sam Kalinski: “The 2012 Varsity football team had a ton of maturity. The leadership of the team ensured that regardless of our victories or setbacks, we never got too high or too low, but kept our sights trained on the next task at hand in a positive mindset.” Senior Jared Arntzen: “It’s not about quantity, rather, all about the quality. We had only a small number of true starters, but we gave it everything on every down. We just never let off.”

ANNUAL FUND YEAR ENDS MAY 31

Let’s Finish Strong In 2012-2013, each and every dollar of the Annual Fund goes into very specific items in the operating budget including technology, athletic needs, dormitory life, educational resources, and much more. Reaching our $850,000 goal this year determines whether or not our teachers and students will have the resources they need to finish this year in the strongest possible way. “As April begins, we need about $200,000 more to make it to $850,000,” says J.C. Ignaszewski, Director of Annual Giving. “Our core donors have been very generous so far, but these last few weeks are key to a winning season for the Annual Fund. If you love Blue Ridge and want to help with a strong finish, now is the time!” For more details on how to make your gift, visit www.blueridgeschool.com/onlinegiving before May 31, or use the enclosed envelope. PHOTOS: 1. “Urinetown” (a musical by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis) from left: Masa Mizuno, Shawn Steen, Lottye Lockhart, Elizabeth Edelman, Isaac King, Kayla Barker, Jared Arntzen, Richard Oshodin, Kayla Chonoles, and EmmaGrace Stokes. The musical was directed by Mr. Jerry King, musical director was Mr. James Niederberger, and the set was built by Mr. Jamie Bourland.

2. These Blue Ridge gentlemen represented the school at the annual New York Auxiliary Ball in January. From left: Jake Adams, Travis Ward, Jimmy Connor, and Sam Kalinski.

3. Daniel Lecce (left) and Clayton Turner pack food for Stop Hunger Now.

David and Jill Kalinski, parents of Sam ‘13

Huntley Galleher ‘80

THE PARENT AND ALUMNI COUNCILS LAUNCH ANNUAL FUND CHALLENGES The BRS Parent Council has issued a challenge to parents of alumni who have not given recently. Make a gift before May 31, and they will match it dollar-for-dollar! The BRS Alumni Council has joined the effort with a challenge to alumni who have not given recently. Make a gift before May 31, and they’ll double it! Together, the two Councils hope to bring back donors to the Annual Fund while contributing more than $50,000. “It has been a great year and we want to do all we can to help,” notes Jill Kalinski, President of the Parent Council. “There are many important program elements that need funding, and we still require our alumni parents to help us.”

4. Ceramics is back at Blue Ridge and taught by accomplished artist Ms. Hairuo Yi. Working on their sculptures are Cody Pegram and David Kim. Ms. Yi also teaches Mandarin.

5. Vincent Guo on a hiking trip. 6. From left are Mr. Vinton Bruton, Mr. Holson and Mrs. Karen Holson (VDGIF Outdoor Education Supervisor and Virginia State NASP Coordinator), Vaughn Scurfield, Jack Orloff, Captain Michael Schulz USMC, Mr. Max Parvin ‘06. Kneeling

Huntley Galleher ‘80 agrees. “Blue Ridge is doing some very smart things today. The boys are having a great experience! This team deserves our support, and bringing the Annual Fund all the way to its $850,000 goal will be a big boost this year, next year, and beyond. I can’t think of a more worthy reason to invite old friends to come back.”

from left are: Jucheon Kim, Ned Nichols, Logan Parish, and Jay Arnold on their first hunt with bows in October.

7. Tyler Pace at the Lacrosse Clinic for 5th-8th grade boys.

If you have questions about how you can join these challenges, call or email JC Ignaszewski or Rory Bosek ‘04. jcignaszewski@blueridgeschool.com - 434-992-0510

REFER A BOY TO BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL

rbosek@blueridgeschool.com - 434-992-0581

Please send us the name and contact information of any parent you feel may have a son who would thrive at Blue Ridge.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! www.BlueRidgeSchool.com/referral

SCAN THIS CODE OR GO TO WWW.BLUERIDGESCHOOL.COM TO DONATE SECURILY ONLINE.

A Winning Year

Pictured above: Alumni Reception Room

ADVANCEMENT/BUILDING UPDATES

Moving Forward Next to our faculty, the most valuable asset Blue Ridge School has is its extraordinary campus. The natural beauty of the mountain and the simple profiles of the buildings and fields are renowned among our alumni, our families, and our school peers across America. As such, current facility and fundraising plans aspire only to steward this remarkable place — making gentle, carefully-crafted additions and upgrades as needed. Simply put, we’ll add only what’s needed to best serve the boys, and to insure Blue Ridge School remains all boys, all boarding, and all college bound. In this spirit, there are several items of good news to report about facility upgrades and additions to the BRS campus:

REMODELED STUDENT CENTER

BRS STUDENT CENTER As the 2012/13 academic year began, the BRS Parent Council was putting the finishing touches on a very successful effort to refit the upper level of the New York Auxiliary Student Center. This investment has yielded dividends all year for students and faculty alike. A Phase Two plan, which would bring similar cosmetic and organizational upgrades to the main floor of the Center, is being developed presently.

BRS TENNIS COURTS Thanks to a generous $90,000 gift from a current parent, the existing courts will be entirely refreshed, using an innovative low-maintenance surface that is attractive and extremely durable, and can even be moved and re-used should BRS wish to further expand its tennis facilities. This renovation is expected to be complete in April, in time for part of the 2013 Varsity season.

BARON ATHLETIC COMPLEX (BAC) BRS is now more than halfway to its funding goal for this new multi-sport area, having received more than $1M in commitments as of this writing toward the goal of $1.95M.

The centerpiece of the complex — a new eight-lane competition quality track — is fully funded, and BRS has recently received a $200,000 challenge gift toward the accompanying artificial turf field. Efforts to meet this challenge gift and advance the entire

Baron Athletic Complex

The two grass soccer fields in the Baron Athletic Complex will be named in celebration of the 1967 Soccer Team who

Peter Holland ‘66 presents the 2012 BRS Distinguished Alumni Award to

earned the historic first State Championship. Team members who attended the Fall Alumni Weekend are, from left: D.A.

Bill Magann ‘67. Also pictured is Bill’s wife, Connie Magann.

Potter, Bobby Groves, George Hammond, Tim Merrick, Jim Arnold and Buz Booker.

project continue. Initial pre-construction work on the site along Bacon Hollow Road may begin this summer with hopes to begin “moving dirt” by 2014. Of particular note, the 1967 BRS Varsity Soccer Team — the School’s first state championship team in any sport — is rallying its members in support of the project. They hope to restore and permanently name the two grass varsity soccer fields within the BAC by raising $96,000. Similar efforts are on the drawing board with BRS Lacrosse and Baseball to help insure this important facility is completed.

BRS FACULTY COMMONS This $900,000 project is well along with nearly $500,000 in gifts and pledges to-date. Architects and site planners are now fully-engaged, with plans to break ground on the first new faculty home this summer. The Commons — a set of homes just behind the Gibson Chapel adjacent to Battle House — promises to be a memorable addition to campus, with architectural cues linking these new cottages to the legendary stone and red-roofed landmarks that surround them.

BATTLE HOUSE Phase One of the shift of Battle House from Headmaster’s Residence to Admission and Advancement offices is now complete. A permanent Alumni Hall is now on the main floor, and the House has become a center for oncampus events and meetings of all types.

WRESTING

A Team with Class

From left: Nate Johnson, Jordan Edelman, Zach Bridges, Daniel Lecce, José Espinoza, Alec Myers, and Torian Meyers

by Rory Bosek ‘04

The 2012-2013 wrestling team was small this year with only seven boys, who, as they struggled through the trials of the season, ultimately formed a bond and truly became a team. The only wrestlers with more than a year’s experience were juniors Torian Pegram at 195 lbs and Nate Johnson at 285 lbs. The rest of the squad members were first time wrestlers freshman José Espinoza at 120 lbs, junior Zach Bridges at 145 lbs, junior Alec Myers at 170 lbs, and junior Jordan Edelman at 220 lbs. Sophomore Daniel Lecce at 138 lbs rounded out the team with one year’s experience. The team was in the able hands of Coach Paul Fehlner who was assisted by Rory Bosek ’04. The season ended with a great showing by the Barons at the VISAA State Wrestling Tournament at Glen Allen High School in Richmond, Virginia. Alec, Zach and Daniel all made the trip

to the State Tournament to support the team and get a taste of the competition and atmosphere in preparation for next year’s tournament. José ended his first year on the mats on day one of the tournament. For a freshman he showed a lot of heart and determination throughout the season and shows real potential for success in future years. Jordan survived to wrestle on the second day before ending his state run with a 1-2 record. Jordan is a true athlete, and, with a little work on technique, he will be standing on the podium with a medal around his neck next year. Nate really came to life during the state tournament. Despite suffering a tough loss to the number one seed in the semifinals, Nate wrestled back to finish 4th in the state. It can be argued that finishing 3rd in the state tournament is one of the most difficult things to do. After beating his Episcopal wrestler 11-0, Torian found himself matched against his conference rival who was the one seed from Lynchburg Christian Academy. Torian lost a tough match but wasted little time before bouncing back with four straight victories to claim his 3rd place finish. It was a successful tournament to cap off a season that was defined by individual growth and the foundational building of a real team. To quote alumnus Chip Isbell ’73, “a great group of young men who carried themselves in victory and defeat with class.” All wrestlers on this year’s team will return next year, and, with the addition of some new faces, they look forward to building on their success.

In the Spotlight Junior Torian Pegram won a gold medal in the 2012 VIC tournament and followed that win with a bronze medal in the VISAA State Tournament. Torian has been in the program for three years and wrestles at 195lb weight. Torian also plays on Blue Ridge School’s varsity soccer team. “Wrestling is a great sport. It has taught me patience, how to manage time (there’s a lot of tournaments) and how to be a leader,” says Torian. As this year’s captain of a team mostly

Pictured above from left are Coach Paul Fehlner, Torian Pegram, and Assistant Coach Rory Bosek ‘04.

comprised of beginners, he adds: “Watching the guys grow this season has definitely been a good experience.” “The VISAA State Tournament final heavyweight matches were intense. In the end, it came down to me and Nate who were both wrestling for third and fourth.” Nathan Johnson (285 weight class) placed fourth overall. Jordan Edelman did well for a first time wrestler. “The encouragement I got all season from my coaches definitely gave me motivation, as did the encouragement I got from everyone here at Blue Ridge — wishing me ‘good luck’ in the hallways – that means a lot.” Torian says that before every match he reminds himself of why he’s competing: “For myself, my family, and everyone else who cares about me.”

Darryl Smith ‘13

Leon Straus ‘14 Filipp Burnashov ‘13

Leon Straus ‘13

BASKETBALL SEASON WRAP-UP

A Tough Year for a Great Team The Varsity Basketball team played one of the nation’s toughest schedules this year, including three of the top ten post grad teams as well as the number one team. Their schedule also included many of the nation’s best high school basketball programs. “We had great guards and wings but we were out-sized in every game,” says Coach Bill Ramsey ’83 who adds that the team also suffered numerous injuries to key players. “We started with 12 players, but played most of the season with only eight,” which gave younger players a chance to be part of the rotation. “Sophomore Tyler Cole became a starter for the second half of the season, while sophomore Afana Offor played as well, and junior Tristan Allen all played key roles – all of which is good for the future,” says Bill. Senior Cody Pegram stepped up and provided very valuable leadership. Junior P.J. White started at forward all season and had to play against many big men. “The team battled all season as they stuck together and got better against several of the best teams in the nation. I’m very proud of them,” says Bill.

AT THE WINTER SPORTS AWARD CEREMONY, THE FOLLOWING PLAYERS WERE HONORED:

Much Improved Player since last year is junior Leon Straus. Bill Ramsey predicts that Leon will be a Division I prospect in basketball, football, and track. “He is a great athlete, and made the second team all conference MVP of the More Than Basketball Show Case game,” says Bill. (14 pts, led team with 27 points, made 3 point shots, 2 assists, 2 steals 4 rebounds per game) The Coaches Award was given to Filipp Burnashov at 6’5” played center and did an outstanding job against many Division I prospects from other high school and post grad teams. “He is a hard worker on the court and in the classroom, and has a great attitude. He is a joy to coach,” says Bill. (7 pts, 6 rebounds, 2 assists per game) The Most Valuable Player was Darryl Smith who has a verbal commitment from Division I Cornell. “Darryl is a great player who leads by example. He always had to guard the other team’s best players and rarely ever came out of the game. He is First Team all conference, First Team all conference tournament, First Team Mercer Tournament,” says Bill. (6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals per game).

VARSITY LACROSSE

Planning on Another Successful year! by John Hetzel

Coming off the program’s first ever VISAA Division I State Cham-

The best way to describe the Baron’s midfield unit in 2013 has

pionship appearance, Coach Gardner’s Varsity Lacrosse Team is

got to be athletic. Filled with two and three sport athletes, this unit

looking forward to repeating last year’s success. With a dramati-

should have no problem adjusting to a new set of NCAA rules that

cally tougher schedule in 2013, the returning upper classmen

will undoubtedly make the game faster. Junior Tate Coley returns

will play a huge role in the Barons’ 2013 season as they will use

as a two-year starter who continues to improve at both ends of the

the foundation of last year’s 16-4 overall record as inspiration to

field. As a sophomore, Coley was one of the Baron’s top defensive

return to the VISAA State Tournament.

midfielders — this season he will likely be the team’s top twoway middie. Coley will be joined at the midfield by juniors Max

New faces on the roster add the depth needed to compete against

Morgan and Callum Tanner. Both are talented, gritty players that

Virginia’s elite private schools: Episcopal High School, Collegiate,

play well between the lines and can put the ball in the net on the

Woodberry Forest, St. Steven’s St. Agnes, St. Christopher’s and

offensive side of the field. Junior Hale Hoback saw limited playing

STAB. In addition to a tough VISAA schedule, Coach Gardner

time as a sophomore, but his game has matured drastically, and

has added The Hill Academy out of Ontario, Kentucky, pow-

he will indisputably crack the regular midfield rotation this spring.

erhouse St. Xavier’s and Maryland’s Calverton High School to

Juniors Jordan Edelman, Dima Ferriera and sophomore Clayton

increase the depth of the Baron’s regular season. “I want to make

Turner will add depth to the midfield unit.

sure that we are going to be tested each and every week. This schedule, against so many quality programs, should do just that,”

Defensively, the Barons will strive to lead the league in fewest

he explains.

goals against. Returning senior starting close defenders Jared Arntzen and Quinton Pavan are both stand out players and lead

The Baron’s 2013 attack unit is filled with point-producing talent.

a promising group of underclassmen. Junior E.J. de la Torre

Senior Chase Fraser returns as a three-year starter, and the most

provides a spark at long stick midfield, while juniors Frankie Har-

seasoned member of our attack unit. Fraser’s game has improved

ris, Nathan Johnson and Davis Wylie add considerable size and

each year, as has his shooting range. Look for Fraser to be an out-

strength to the Baron back line. Senior veteran Nathan Stough

side shooting threat, in addition to his excellent finishing abilities

has worked hard to gain strength and discipline in his game which

around the crease. Junior Rylee Marsh returns as a second-year

should translate into runs at short stick defender. Midyear long

starter and has improved tremendously during the off-season.

stick transfers, junior Hunter Lyle, and freshman Noah Jessey join

Now playing with the confidence of a seasoned veteran, Marsh

freshman Terrell Credle to bring athleticism and prowess to the

has taken on the major role of distributing the ball to teammates

existing core of the BRS defense. Ridge goal tending is in capable

from X. Fraser and Marsh will be joined this year by University of

hands this spring. Freshman Sam Ross has been sharp since fall

Denver commit and three-year starter, Tyler Pace, who will make

ball, while steadily improving junior Greg Wasserstrom could

the switch from the midfield to attack to quarterback the Baron’s

easily step into a playing role. Junior Travis Ward provides extra

offense. “Tyler is a great athlete, strong leader and tremendous

depth between the pipes. “I like our speed in transition and the

player. By switching him to attack this year, we will be able to

takeaway mentality of this group. If we get the ball to our offense,

consistently keep him on the field,” says Coach Gardner. After

great things will happen,” says Coach Hetzel.

a successful 2012 where he tallied over 100 points, Pace returns

even bigger and stronger which should elevate his point production immensely.

Indoor Soccer

TROY NICHOLS

Business Manager “Sound fiscal management is how Blue Ridge School will thrive...I am excited and grateful to have Troy on the BRS Leader Team,” - Headmaster Trip Darrin.

B S Blue Ridge School’s Indoor Soccer Team, the self-titled Betty White Death Brigade, won the semi-finals of the Valentine Classic Tournament. The team beat Trinity 3-2 to advance to the semi-finals, and then beat Steward 3-1. Ultimately, the team lost to St. Christopher’s. The team members were Michael Gerry, Shawn Steen, Jimmy Fleck, Tate Coley, Nana OhemengTinyase, Bibi Olaitan, Matt Senning, and Matt Schneider. Coach Matt Bennett was assisted by Mr. Joe Reilly. This is the first time in many years that Blue Ridge has made it to the finals in this tournament. Senior Shawn Steen and freshman Michael Gerry were selected for the All-Tournament Team for the Valentine Classic.

Indoor Soccer is a year-round international sport with a robust tournament schedule. The first recorded indoor soccer game took place in 1885. Since then, the sport has grown throughout the world. Indoor soccer is most popular in the United States, Canada and Mexico where there are several amateur, collegiate and professional leagues. Our indoor soccer team plays a variation called futsal, a Portuguese word which means “hall football” that is played on a hard surface with lines, but no walls or boards, and the ball is smaller with less bounce than a regular soccer ball.

BRS SUMMER LACROSSE CAMP - JUNE 19-22 FOR BOYS 8-14

COACHES: KYLE GARDNER JOHN HETZEL ORLANDO PATTERSON FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.BLUERIDGESCHOOL.COM/LACROSSE_SUMMER_CAMP

“Sound fiscal management is how Blue Ridge School will thrive over the long haul. In the increasingly competitive independent school industry, no single school is sustainable unless there are smart people in the business office,” says Headmaster Trip Darrin in his introduction of Troy Nichols, who came to Blue Ridge School in September of 2012. “Troy has the wealth of experience and expertise needed to manage Blue Ridge School’s budget as we funnel maximum resources into student programs. I am excited and grateful to have Troy on the BRS Leader Team,” adds Mr. Darrin. Mr. Nichols hails from Corry, Pennsylvania, and is the son of a small business owner. Troy earned a B.S. in Accounting and Management Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University, and is a member of the Beta Alpha Psi honorary accounting fraternity. Troy has worked for Fortune 500 companies in Pennsylvania and Houston, Texas, including Zenith Petroleum and J.G. Mackin & Associates, Inc. He has also worked for certified public accountant firms with both public and private company clientele including manufacturers, wholesalers, hospitals, local governments and savings associations. He has extensive experience in financial reporting, budgeting, investment and financial analysis. Troy lives on campus with his wife, Lisa, who brings 25 years of experience in school administration to the BRS Community. Lisa and Troy have three daughters. Their two eldest daughters live close by, as does one grandchild, and their youngest daughter lives in Houston, Texas.

Mike Jamrozek, Security Manager at Blue Ridge School, is more than what his title implies. His military background as well as his experience in the private world of security give him the perfect mix of background, experience and knowledge to keep the boys safe and teach them leadership skills.

MIKE JAMROZEK

A Positive Influence

His first introduction to security came when he joined the Marine Corps at 23 years of age. During his four years of service his responsibilities ranged from protecting a nuclear reactor near Camp Pendleton, California, to clearing the infantry’s path of IEDs (improvised explosive devices) in Iraq where he served two tours. “I was the guy in front, making sure that the men who followed had a clear path,” explains Mike. That also entailed breeching any obstructing barrier or wall. “I had to either find a way around or demolish it” says Mike, who always carried explosives in his pack. On his first tour of duty, he was involved in what many consider to be the beginning of the end of the Iraq war. “Operation Steel Curtain basically put a stop to insurgents entering from Syria. We cleared out their stronghold where they were coming into the country.” It was strategically one of the most valuable military victories in Iraq. After his two tours of duty, he moved to Virginia and completed the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services armed security certification and began his career in civilian security. Mike joined Blue Ridge School in 2009, and this year he and his wife, Kristie, and their three children - daughters Ryan and Ainsley, and son Kris - have moved onto campus.

“I’ve watched the current seniors who came in as little guys and I’ll see them leave here not only bigger than me

“Basically I oversee the halls at night, watching over the entire campus. I spend most of my time in the halls,” he says. He makes sure that the boys don’t stay up too late studying and get enough rest so they’re prepared for the next day’s schoolwork.

but as mature young men who know how to make good decisions. The best thing about my job is that I have had a chance to have a positive influence on them.”

While making sure the boys are safe is his top priority, Mike also drives around the entire campus several times to check on all the buildings. Mike monitors who is coming on and off campus as well. He inspects anything unusual.

“My military and private security experiences have given me the skills to do this job well,” explains Mike, who adds that dealing with teenage boys is not a whole lot different than working with people in a club. “They all want the same thing: to have fun and get their way. It’s my responsibility to ensure they are safe and abiding the rules.” The difference is that at Blue Ridge he can have a role in teaching boys how to make good decisions, and develop self-control. Part of his job is getting to know the boys. “They have to take you seriously and they won’t do that if they don’t respect and trust you. I listen to them and try to understand what their issues are.” Mike explains that he wants them to share their problems, which could impact the other boys on the hall. Developing a relationship of trust allows Mike to be firm but still be approachable. Mike points out that in military and private security work, your focus is on external threats. “At a school, most of my attention is on preventing internal problems.” “Living on campus gives me more chance to help out where I can,” says Mike who coaches martial arts and supervises the Saturday Work Crew. In the fall trimester he taught mixed martial arts which focuses on grappling aspects. Mike says it’s a safer, more efficient way to train a martial art. He believes martial arts is a productive way to channel emotions and learn skills that develop self-control in stressful situations. During the winter, he offered a Brazilian jujitsu club three nights a week. “It gives the boys a chance to try a martial art. I hope to get them in a competition eventually so they can earn a belt and recognition in the sport.” Mike applies team and leadership-building lessons he learned in the Marines to coaching. “I’ve found that if I teach one boy a technique and ask him to teach a small group, they are often more receptive to learning from a peer.” “Work crew is basically punishment assigned by the dean of students. The boys are entrusted to me and I find tasks around the campus that improve the quality of life on campus.” These tasks include making sure halls and bathrooms are clean, picking up trash on the roads the School has adopted, raking leaves, and carrying firewood to faculty homes. “I try to make the four hours

of work as interesting as possible and I give them incentives, like time off for hard work.” Mike also applies his Marine training to his work crews. “I break the boys up into teams and have them pick a leader. This gives the boys a chance to delegate responsibility.” The teams compete against each other. The one that completes the task first, and well, will get a reward like reduced work crew time. “It’s good practice in developing and delegating authority — things that will help them in a work environment. The Marine Corps taught me to learn to compete on every level. It’s good for boys to learn positive competition. It gets results. The dorms are cleaned more thoroughly and the boys do a better job.” Mike wants to make the work crew more about learning than about punishment. “Hopefully the boys learn two lessons: not to be on Work Crew the next weekend and how to work together,” says Mike who notes that some boys have never cleaned anything before. Again, he uses another Marine training technique. He has a peer teach them how to rake leaves, wipe down a shower, or hold a broom. “They will learn from each other more effectively than from me,” Mike explains. When he supervises Study Hall once a week Mike says he analyzes how each boy learns. “Some are visual and others are auditory.” He explains that having the boy teach Mike is one of the best ways for the boy to learn the subject matter. “You’d be surprised how well they learn this way. A boy will show me a math problem he’s struggling with that I haven’t seen in a while and I’ll ask him to show me what he knows.” In teaching Mike the student will invariably answer his own question. “They always thank me and really I haven’t done anything. It was all their work,” he laughs. This is Mike’s fourth year at BRS. “I’ve watched the current seniors who came in as little guys and I’ll see them leave here not only bigger than me but as mature young men who know how to make good decisions. The best thing about my job is that I have had a chance to have a positive influence on them.”

Senior Asa Thomas throws Mike Jamrozek.

RORY BOSEK ‘04

The Epitome of a Blue Ridge Gentleman SPRING SPORTS WEEKEND - MAY 11, 2013 10 AM - Inaugural Alumni Soccer Match (Organized and co-chaired by Isidro Mendoza ‘04 and Nathan Greenwood ‘09) 12 PM - 4th Annual Alumni Lax Game 3 PM - Varsity Lax VIC Championship Game 5 PM - Reception in Battle House Follow who’s coming on our Facebook groups: Blue Ridge Alumni Lacrosse and Blue Ridge Alumni Soccer

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Fall Alumni Weekend - November 1-3

Rory Bosek ’04 has returned to Blue Ridge School to take the position of Director of Alumni Relations, replacing Jamie Miller III ’94 who moved into the role of BRS Admissions Director. “I’m thrilled that Rory has joined our team!” says Headmaster Trip Darrin. “For a young man only eight years out of high school, Mr. Bosek has developed strong business acumen and built a pretty impressive resume,” says Mr. Darrin. “More importantly, Mr. Bosek is a member of that group who ‘bleed blue’; he loves Blue Ridge School deeply, and, through this love of the school, Mr. Bosek has developed a diverse group of friends within the greater network of BRS alumni,” adds Mr. Darrin. “Anytime you can bring an alumnus of Rory’s caliber and skills back to campus, it’s a great opportunity. Rory is a perfect fit to lead our Alumni Relations and giving programs – and he’s an all-around great example of a ‘Blue Ridge Boy,’” says Assistant Headmaster for Advancement Franklin Daniels. Mr. Bosek has a distinguished career in business and has been an active member of the Blue Ridge Alumni Council for many years. After Blue Ridge School, Mr. Bosek attended Liberty University where he graduated cum laude in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Business and Marketing. He continued at Liberty to complete a Master of Business Administration, graduating with honors in 2009.

Reunion Year’s 8’s and 3’s beginning with 1968. RSVP to RBosek@BlueRidgeSchool.com

During and after college, Mr. Bosek worked as District Manager of Cici’s Pizza, overseeing the operation of five franchised locations in Lynchburg from 2007-2012. He was named one of the top ten percent of managers within the franchise’s 600 locations nationwide. Since 2012, Mr. Bosek has been owner/operator of three Cici’s franchised locations. Mr. Bosek helped to start the now-annual Alumni Lacrosse event, attendance at which has grown steadily over the past several years. His experience, talent, and dedication to Blue Ridge will help build a stronger connection among alumni from all generations. He is helping his former mentor Mr. Paul Fehlner as the assistant coach in our Wrestling Program. Rory’s wife, Maddy, is pursuing her doctorate in physical therapy at Lynchburg College where she’s scheduled to finish in 2013. They have one son, Russell, aged two, a daughter, Quin, born March 21, and a dog named Louie. The Bosek’s will reside on campus. “Our team looks forward to having Rory and his family with us for many years to come,” says Mr. Daniels.

In Memoriam MARGARET MOSELLE HALL HAMILTON ‘35 died

ROBERT ADRIAN SHORE, JR. ‘09 died February 26,

December 5 in Arlington. She was 94.

2013 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born in Mt. Pleasant, Rob was the loving son of Margaret Royall Griffin of Mt. Pleasant and Robert Adrian Shore of Greenville. He was 24 years old and fought cystic fibrosis his entire life with courage and valor.

Born March 14, 1918 in Albemarle County, it was Mrs. Hamilton’s dream to be a teacher and her mother enrolled her in Blue Ridge School to help her achieve her dream. Mrs. Hamilton earned a scholarship to attend Harrisonburg State Teachers College (now James Madison University) where she attained a teaching certificate at age 19. In 1960 she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at the University of Virginia. In 1969 she attained a Master of Education Reading Specialist Degree from the University of Virginia. Mrs. Hamilton began her career as a fourth grade student teacher at Main Street School in Harrisonburg. Her first full-time teaching position was in a one-room schoolhouse in Whitehall in Albemarle County. Over her 42-year career she taught in Scottsville, Manassas, Charlottesville, and Falls Church (Lemon Road, George Mason and George C. Marshall).

He is survived by his parents; his brother, Royall Venning Shore; his stepmother, Nora Shore; his stepfather, John Griffin; his stepsisters, Lacey Outten and Grace Griffin and his stepbrother, John Griffin, Jr. Also surviving are his grandparents Adrian Rice Shore of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and Edith F. and Robert V. Royall of Mt. Pleasant. He will be greatly missed by his family, and his many Blue Ridge friends.

CHRISTOPHER MATHIAS GAGNON ‘06 passed away

In 1978 Mrs. Hamilton retired and became an ardent community volunteer. She was a longtime member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society of women educators, and served as president. She joined the Fairfax Hospital Auxiliary and held various leadership positions. Mrs. Hamilton mentored and tutored students at local schools, served as a member of the Dean’s Council of the UVA Curry School of Education, and was a campaign committee member for Blue Ridge School. She was an active member of St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church in McLean.

January 16, 2013. He was born July 15, 1987 in New Orleans and was 25. He is survived by his parents, Gilles M. Gagnon and Kimily Stetler Gagnon and his sister, Whitney A. Gagnon. He is also survived by his grandparents Russel K. Stetler (Harriet), June M. Bonar (Jim), Helene Gagnon and the late Florien P. Gagnon; great-aunt Virginia Stewart; aunts Lorraine Bernier, and Gloria Foss; uncles Clifford W. Stetler, Daniel E. Stetler, Andre Gagnon, and the late Randall T. Stetler; and various cousins and friends.

Mrs. Hamilton joins her husbands Carroll B. Hamilton and Patrick J. O’Connor, sister Mary Pace, brother James Hall, and parents Margaret “Maggie” and Edward D. Hall, who preceded her in death. Survivors include sister-in-law Laura Hall of Harrisonburg and brother-in-law Warren Pace of Falls Church, nephews W. Joseph “Joe” Pace, Jr., John H. Pace, John E. Hall, David A. Hall, and nieces Mary Pace Sciba and Brenda Hall Robey, as well as numerous great-nieces and-nephews.

Christopher attended St. George’s Episcopal School and Blue Ridge School of Virginia, class of 2006. He was a lifetime resident of New Orleans, enjoying the Saints and New Orleans’ culture. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, snow skiing and boating. Maine was his second home. He had a special gift of renovating homes with his father. Christopher’s sense of humor and kindness will be sadly missed.

Blue Ridge School 273 Mayo Drive St. George, VA 22935

The Admissions Office at Blue Ridge School is having a successful year. Director of Admissions Jamie Miller III (Class of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;94) is pleased with the quality of boys who have interviewed thus far. Our student tour guides have been busy showing prospective families the campus, and sharing what they love best about Blue Ridge. Share your Blue Ridge experience with a family whose son might benefit from a BRS experience. www.BlueRidgeSchool/referral Pictured is Colin Cahill â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15, a member of the BRS Mountain Biking Program. Cahill is one of many boys who has been enjoying the Gateway Trails for more than a year. Mountain biking is a perfect fit for the Blue Ridge culture as it encourages endurance, self-reliance, and a respect for the stunning natural forest that surrounds the campus.