SPARTAN HIGHLIGHTS

COLLEGE SIGNINGS

The Sayre School graduating class of 2021 included four graduates who continue to play their high school sport as college athletes. We are proud of the following students who are now enrolled as student-athletes at their respective campuses:

Luke Bowers, Lacrosse: Lake Forest College

Trey Dennis, Football: University of Kentucky

Michael Madden, Football: Southern Methodist University

Emma Samuel, Soccer: Georgetown College

Congratulations and best of luck to our college student-athletes!

SAYRE ATHLETICS

For Sayre students to participate in athletics last year, administrators, coaches, players, and parents worked hard to follow the guidelines set forth by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE), CDC, and KHSAA. Several Sayre coaches feel the memorable season strengthened bonds as teams built cultures that allowed them to overcome collective hurdles. In turn, it brought them closer together and made them grateful for one another. Players and coaches report that the experiences they shared within their programs were challenging, rewarding, and empowering. Although there were many cancellations and interruptions due to the pandemic, it was incredible to see our community go above and beyond to make things happen. We are Spartan strong!

FALL SPORTS

Football

HEAD COACH: Chad Pennington (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The 2020 football team hoped for a breakout season following their first two years as a hybrid JV and varsity program. Seniors Corey Givens, Michael Madden, Trey Dennis, Woods Freeman, Jackson Cornett, Connor Davis, Robert Farish, Justin Freeman, Carlos Ramirez, Ricky Reynolds, Goran Stephan, and Trey Watts led the team. In their first season as a fully sanctioned varsity team, the Spartans had an incredible season and finished with an 8-1 record. Throughout the season, the team remained focused on improving team chemistry, setting goals, and taking full advantage of participating in a conference. Despite losing in the playoffs to Pikeville in the first round, the football program continues to take positive strides forward.

Boys and Girls Golf

HEAD COACH: David White (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The boys and girls golf teams had a strong season. The girls golf team was led by Jane Stilz ’22, while Hayden Adams ’23 led the varsity boys team. Hayden

Photo by Jeff Houchin

competed in the All A State Tournament and the 2020 State Golf Championships in Bowling Green. Jane made a hole in one during a match held at Kearney Hills Golf Links, a significant highlight of the season.

Cross Country

HEAD COACH: Brad Murphy (5th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The 2020 cross country season was one of agility and gratitude. The boys and girls cross country team rose to the occasion. Team goals focused on personal improvement and team support, and players did an excellent job. Many personal records (PR’s) were met throughout the season. The team cherished the opportunity to be together outside and enjoyed running.

Volleyball

HEAD COACH: Leigh Nahra (8th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: Even though the volleyball season was far from normal, the players and coaches were pleased to have an opportunity to play the sport they love. Thirty-eight players on the team allowed for two strong teams. Regardless of the restrictions due to COVID, the team persevered and had a remarkable season. It was different without fans at the beginning of the season. However, the team warmly welcomed parents toward the end of the season. Thanks to all the players and coaches for the positive attitude throughout the season, especially to seniors Cassidy Brandenburg and Nathalie de Sousa. The team finished with a 14-5 record during the abbreviated season.

Varsity Girls Soccer

HEAD COACH: Michael McKinney (8th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The varsity girls soccer team returned a strong group of players led by seniors Jade Adams, Cate Goodman, Emme Goodman, Abby Grunwald, Alexis Henry, Mathilde Longbottom, Lexi Roth, Emma Samuel, Claire Thayer, Scout VanMeter, and Allison Whitaker. With the challenges that all fall sports worked through, the girls varsity soccer team had one of its best seasons ever. The team finished with a 10-5 record and finished runner-up in the 42nd District Tournament. In addition, the team advanced to the 11th Region Tournament and had several players who received endof-the-year accolades. Although the program is losing a number of seniors, the team is looking forward to reloading again next season.

Varsity Boys Soccer

HEAD COACH: Todd Bretz (1st Season) COACH’S REMARKS: This season’s goal was to learn to be positive, flexible, and develop individual soccer skills. The theme of the season was adaptability. We were glad to have some games and especially to participate in the Bluegrass State Games. The coaches and players each brought a great attitude and work ethic to each training session, and the camaraderie was contagious. The coaches are incredibly thankful for all the players, athletic staff, and parents who worked to support the team throughout the fall. The team was able to play nine games and had a highlight of beating the 42nd

District opponent Scott County, 2-1, in the season’s final game. We are very thankful for seniors Alex Cofield, Jackson Cornett, Antonio de Movellan, Levy Deckard, Marcum McLean, Goran Stephan, and Harrison Ward.

WINTER SPORTS

Varsity Boys Basketball

HEAD COACH: Rob Goodman, Class of 1989 (9th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The team won a lot of games against some powerful competition. The young men came to the gym every day ready to work hard. Their goals were to be resilient, outwork other teams, and improve their physical and mental health. The mantra was to be flexible: it didn’t matter when or who we played; the team was thankful for each opportunity. During the abbreviated season, the team went 11-7 thanks to an amazing group of seniors, including Trey Dennis, Woods Freeman, Corey Givens, Jackson Grau, and Ford Webb. The team finished the year with a 13-7 record, including two signature wins over 42nd district opponent Bryan Station. An exciting game with the perennial power Scott County went down to the final buzzer ending with a one-point loss for Sayre. Their hard work was evident. The team brings back a solid program next season, and it will be ready to battle city teams. BOYS BASKETBALL AWARDS: Zander Collett ’22- All-City 2nd team, All-Region, All-A 11th Region Team Dant Bowling ’22- All-City Honorable Mention, All-District Corey Givens ’21- All-City Honorable Mention, All-District

Varsity Girls Basketball

HEAD COACH: Bart Bellairs (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The varsity girls basketball team had a strong season! The team finished with a 12-4 record with signature wins over Bryan Station, Frederick Douglass, Lexington Christian, and Henry Clay. Many thanks to the Lady Spartans outstanding seniors Cate Goodman, Teresa Murphy, Elizabeth Patterson, Emma Samuel, and Melissa Shane. Their strong leadership shaped the season. Kylee Dennis ’23 surpassed 1000 points in her career and returns as one of the best players in the city next season.

Swimming and Diving

HEAD COACH SWIMMING: Deirdre Mikolajcik (1st Season) HEAD COACH DIVING: Jamie Palumbo, Class of 1996 COACH’S REMARKS: Senior Abby Grunwald had a fantastic final year of her swimming career, breaking the 200 Freestyle and 100 Butterfly records. Divers excelled at the KHSAA Regional Championship meet with Glenna Conley ’23 placing 4th, Anna Kate Keating ’22 placing 7th, and Eliza Mullins ’23 placing 8th. All three earned a medal! As a result, the Sayre Girls Team placed 1st in the KHSAA Region 8 Dive Championships! Glenna Conley qualified for the KHSAA State Diving Championships. Her excellent performance qualified her past the first cut, missing the

second cut by less than seven points to make the semifinals.

Wrestling

HEAD COACH:William Green (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: Wrestling, considered the highest risk sport during this pandemic, had many challenges that coaches and athletes had to navigate to have a season. With a great deal of creativity and discipline, junior Bill Bradley persevered and became the Region 7 Heavyweight Champion, ending the season as one of the top heavyweight wrestlers in the state. Bill was the first and only Regional Champion in the school’s history. In addition, Coach Green was named Coach of the Year for the 7th Region.

SPRING SPORTS

Varsity Tennis

HEAD COACH: Charles Matthews (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The Spartan tennis team focused on achieving athletically, personally, and emotionally. The goal was to get outside, be active, and enjoy the sport - focusing on individual improvement drills for work athleticism, match play athleticism, and match play. Every player on the team was dedicated to practices and giving their best on the court. TENNIS HIGHLIGHTS: Greer Webb ’24 and Shane Landis ’21 were the #1 seeds for Sayre. They both qualified and participated in the state tournament. Greer solidified herself as one of the top players in the Region and a seeded contender in the state. She was also the only freshman in the top four of the girls’ draw. Coach Charles Matthews was awarded Regional Boys Tennis Coach of the Year.

Varsity Girls Lacrosse

HEAD COACH: Anna Cook (5th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The 2021 girls lacrosse season was a success! The team competed against several top ten teams in the state and continued to go deep into the playoffs. Lauren Mullikin ’22 became the second female to be recognized as an All-American. As a junior, Lauren was one of the top draw control players in the state, while Mary Grace Murphy ’22 scored 53 goals this season and was two goals shy of reaching 100. Overall, the team finished with an 11-5 season and was runner-up in the district. Lexie Blackburn ’22 was one of the top goalies in the state, with a save percentage of over 60% on the season. ADDITIONAL ACCOLADES INCLUDED: All-State: Lauren Mullikin ’22 (midfield and draw), Emily Hardeman-Erbar ’23 (defense) All-Region: Lauren Mullikin ’22 (midfield and draw), Emily Hardeman-Erbar ’23 (defense), Mary Grace Murphy ’22 (attack) All-Star: Lauren Mullikin ’22 (midfield and draw), Isabelle Brogden ’23 (midfield), Lexie Blackburn ’22 (goalie), Mary Grace Murphy ’22 (attack)

Photo by Faith Lyman

Varsity Boys Lacrosse

HEAD COACH:Adam Reel (1st Season) COACH’S REMARKS: Tommy Mullikin ’23 became the first sophomore ever to be named an All-American lacrosse player at Sayre. Tommy was one of the leading scorers in the nation this past year with 99 goals. The Sayre Spartan lacrosse team had a historic run in 2021! The team recorded a 14-6 record and advanced to the state quarterfinals. The team won the school’s firstever playoff game en route to a 14-3 record. Unfortunately, it was cut short with a heartbreaking loss in the state quarterfinals to a scrappy Northern Kentucky Bulldogs squad. A quartet of seniors led the team. Their dedication and leadership were instrumental in the overall success of the team. Senior co-captain Luke Bowers was the team’s second-leading scorer despite missing several games due to injury. His effort, skill, and leadership earned him an All-State honorable mention award and a trip to play in the All-Star game. Co-captain Easton Morton ’21 had his best statistical season between the pipes and served as the backbone of the defense. His outstanding play earned him All-Star game MVP honors. Our two other seniors, Will Conley and Seth Rubin supported one of the most stellar defenses in the state, allowing only 6.6 GPG. We had two underclassmen who earned All-State honors. All-State Caleb Kern ’22 played a very physical and intimidating brand of defense, keeping many opposing teams’ top attackmen in check. Attackman Tommy Mullikin ’23 also earned All-State honors, scoring a state-best 99 goals. His offensive skill and production made him the first student-athlete in Sayre history to become a United States Boys Lacrosse All-American. Other standouts included defenseman Sammy Slabaugh ’22 and newcomers Wilkes Offutt ’24 and Jack Bernard ’24. Look out, Kentucky! Sayre lacrosse is on the rise!

Track & Field

HEAD COACH:Liz Dietrich (4th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: Last year was the largest team in recent school history, with 30 athletes - 16 upper schoolers and 14 middle schoolers – competing. Fifteen athletes, eight upper schoolers and seven middle schoolers qualified to compete at state meets. Cat Graves ’21 (1600m) and Jackson Marshall ’22 (100m) finished in the top eight of their events at the Kentucky High School State meet. In addition, the boys 4x400m relay team of Jack Johnston ’25, Joshua MuñozDeceano ’25, Rhese Perrin ’25, and Caleb Turner ’25 finished in the top 8 of their event at the Kentucky Middle School State meet. UPPER SCHOOL RECORDS SET LAST SEASON: Jackson Marshall ’22 – 100m and high jump Alexis Henry ’21 – 200m Ian Thornberry ’21, Carlos Ramirez ’21, Jackson Marshall ’22, and Witt Wood ’23 – 4x100m relay Marcum McLean ’21, Clay Monohan ’23, Will Marsden ’22, Ian Thornberry ’21 – 4x800m relay

Haydon Wilson ’22 – shot put and discus MIDDLE SCHOOL RECORDS SET LAST SEASON: Rhese Perrin ’25 – 400m Abigail Turner ’27 – 800m and 1600m Caleb Turner ’25 – 800m Jack Johnston ’25, Joshua MuñozDeceano ’25, Rhese Perrin ’25, and Caleb Turner ’25 – 4x400m relay Asher Feddock ’26, Jack Johnston ’25, Bodin Perrin ’27, and Caleb Turner ’25 – 4x800m relay Joey Montanez ’26– shot put and discus Charlotte Harris ’25 – shot put and discus We look forward to continued growth and success in our program, and we encourage all interested Sayre students to join us!

Baseball

HEAD COACH:Kevin Clary (7th Season) COACH’S REMARKS: The baseball season was a tremendous success, and Sayre won the 42nd District Championship for the first time in school history! The team was very young: one senior, five sophomores, two freshmen, and one eighth grader started each game. They played a tough regular season to prepare them for the rigors of the 11th Region. It paid off in the long run. The future looks exceptionally bright for the Spartans in the next couple of years. We hope to build on the legacy that this team created. Coach Kevin Clary was named the 11th Region Coach of the Year.

PRESS BOX DEDICATION/ANNOUNCER’S BOOTH

September 18, 2020, was a night of celebration and gratitude at the Sayre Athletic Complex (SAC). The Press Box and Announcer’s Booth were dedicated, and several of Sayre’s brightest stars were recognized.

The new Press Box was a significant addition to the athletic facility and was made possible by a generous donation by the Palumbo family: Joe ’94, Jennifer, Anna ’23, and John ’25. Flooring and windows, materials and labor, nuts and bolts, were all made possible by the Palumbos. Joe currently serves as Alumni Council President and on the Board of Trustees.

Randy Mills, “The Heart of the Bluegrass,” was recognized for his many talents with the naming of the Announcer’s Booth in his honor. The Greg Goodman family and the Mt. Brilliant Family Foundation wanted to honor Mr. Mills for his many years of service to the school and his exemplary voice when calling sports. When he is not assisting young adults to find their “right fit” on college campuses worldwide, he gives tirelessly of his time to Spartan athletics, which he truly loves. Hannah Goodman Goodlett ’05, who was on hand to congratulate Mr. Mills, serves on Sayre’s Board of Trustees.

Other recent improvements at the SAC include bleachers, the stadium, an alumni deck, and lights. Our studentathletes compete head-to-head with the visiting opponents and at a facility that measures toe-to-toe. The SAC continues to be supported by many Sayre families, making our teams Spartan strong!

Our Mission in Action