asst. director of special eventsdonor & alumni relations
Crystal Melton crystal.melton@bvhs.org
athletic director
Greg Coleman greg.coleman@bvhs.org
sports editor
Ryan Murphy ’10 mtxemurphy@gmail.com
creative director
April Bordeaux april@ABdesignerd.com
advertising information
Patty Holmes patty.holmes@bvhs.org
Black & Gold Magazine is published quarterly; fall, winter, spring, and summer by Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Inc. More than 6,500 copies are provided to alumni, parents, students, and friends.
Every effort is made to keep our database up to date and accurate. If you are a parent receiving this magazine at home in the name of your child, please contact us so we may update our database. All address updates should be made by emailing Patty Holmes at communications@bvhs.org.
Rooted in Catholic tradition, Bishop Verot educates the minds and hearts of all students in an innovative and community-centered learning environment, preparing them for lives of faithful service to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Recognized by Apple
Letter from the Editor
Viking Creed G
As members of the Verot family, we will always support our fellow Vikings, defend our traditions, honor our legacy, and Bleed black and gold. We are Verot!
It is hard to believe another school year is drawing to a close! Spring has been very busy on the Verot campus as you can see in this edition.
The Regency Garden Gala took place in March, with attendees giving generously in support of the Verot mission. We would especially like to thank all the sponsors who made the event spectacular (pages 7-9). This year’s Alumna of the Year was also announced during the event. Please read more about Megan O’Grady ’20 and how her time at Verot has impacted her work in the non-profit world, on page 10.
We are pleased to highlight another alum, John Gavin ’09, who will be performing with STOMP! in June at Artis-Naples. He shares his story of how he found his passion for percussion and performing during his time here at Verot on page 12.
Catholic Schools Week, celebrated the last week of January, is always a very special time on campus. Festivities include house activities focused on our faith, dress out days, and of course, the celebration of Mass with the entire student body. After Mass, the student-chosen nominees for the Christ the Teacher award are announced, with one inspiring teacher given the honor. This year’s recipient, Mr. Pete Orsita, gives so much of his time to the Verot family, both in and out of the classroom. Read how inspires his students to think about the needs of others on page 14.
The Athletic Department has been hard at work this school year and it shows! A record 29 seniors have signed to play their respective sports at the collegiate level. We have cheered 17 teams on to earn District titles, four to Regional titles, and one to compete at the State Championship level. Two athletes were awarded State Champions – Justin Davis ’25 for weightlifting and Ryan Peterson ’25 for discus (track & field). Check out the Spring Athletic Guide, beginning on page 15.
And finally, catch up with some of your fellow alumni, beginning with the Alumni News section on page 47. We would love to share your accomplishments or announcements in the next edition – send your picture and announcement details to communications@bvhs.org
We hope you enjoy this edition of your B&G Alumni Magazine. Keep an eye out this summer for your next edition featuring your newest alumni, the Class of 2025. And be sure to update your contact information at https://www.bvhs.org/ alumni.
Blessings,
Scenes from the spring musical, Curtains
Missio n Statement G
Rooted in Catholic tradition, Bishop Verot educates the minds and hearts of all students in an innovative and community-centered learning environment, preparing them for lives of faithful service to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Each spring, our community comes together for an evening that is both joyful and deeply meaningful—our Annual Gala. It is a night to celebrate who we are, where we’ve come from, and the incredible impact our graduates continue to have in the world. This year’s Gala was especially poignant for me personally, as I had the honor of recognizing someone very dear to my heart as our 2025 Alumnus of the Year—my daughter, Megan O’Grady.
When the selection committee put forth Megan’s name, I hesitated—not because I doubted her worthiness, but because I knew it would draw attention to our personal connection. But the committee reminded me that this award is not about appearances—it is about truth. It is about honoring a graduate who lives our mission of faith, service, and compassion. And Megan embodies that mission beautifully.
As many of you know, Megan founded Blue Line Bears while she was still a student at Verot. Through this ministry, she has brought comfort to hundreds of families grieving the loss of a loved one in law enforcement. What began as a small gesture of kindness has grown into an internationally recognized effort of healing and hope, grounded in faith and love. She has turned sorrow into service and transformed tragedy into compassion—a living witness of the Gospel’s call to be a light in the darkness.
But Megan’s story is just one of many. Each year, we are inspired by the incredible accomplishments of our alumni—men and women who are using their gifts to make a difference in their professions, their communities, and the Church. We are so proud of each of you and the unique ways you carry the Verot legacy forward.
One shining example is alumnus John Gavin, who shared his musical talents with us as a member of the Bishop Verot Drumline under the leadership of our beloved former Band Director, Maureen Steger. I had the pleasure of teaching John for two years, and he was an outstanding student—thoughtful, creative, and kind. Even then, it was clear he had a special spark. I am so proud of him for following his dream and pursuing a career in music. Today, John continues to share his gifts on a national stage as a performer with the Broadway hit show STOMP!, reminding us that our alumni are not only dreamers, but doers— artists, leaders, servants, and disciples.
At Bishop Verot, our mission is clear: to form young men and women of faith, purpose, and integrity. To see that mission lived out in the lives of our graduates is the greatest reward we can ask for.
Thank you for continuing to be a part of the Verot story. Whether you’re down the road or across the country, you remain a cherished part of our family.
Blessings,
Mrs. Suzie O'Grady
Mrs.
Suzie O’Grady, Principal
Letter from the Director of Advancement
“We will not fail.”
–
St. Francis de Sales –
These words from our patron saint are a reminder that we are called to live and love like God. We, too, must never quit. Never give up on one another or on ourselves. Above all, we must remember that God will never abandon us and His love never fails.
your Gift...their Growth
Dear Bishop Verot Community,
As spring brings new beginnings, we find ourselves filled with joy and pride as we celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. Congratulations, seniors—you’ve made it! Your hard work, faith, and perseverance have shaped you into the remarkable individuals we now send forth into the world. But remember: this is not goodbye, it’s simply see you later.
At Bishop Verot, our connection doesn’t end with graduation, it only grows stronger. Our alumni are the heart of our tradition, continually supporting the mission that formed them. Whether through mentorship, service, prayer, or financial gifts, their ongoing involvement breathes life into our school’s legacy. They remind us that once a VIKING, always a VIKING
The generosity from our school community plays a vital role in our ability to fulfill the mission of Bishop Verot.
When you give to the VIKING FUND, your support allows us to foster an environment that promotes academic excellence, spiritual formation, and physical growth for every student who walks our halls. It empowers us to invest in the people, programs, and facilities that make Bishop Verot a place where young men and women grow into leaders of faith and purpose.
Our Spring Appeal is now underway, and we invite you to be part of something greater. When you give, you invest in more than just a school—you invest in the growth of our students, the strength of our community, and the future of Catholic education.
Make your gift to the VIKING FUND today, and help us continue to inspire minds and shape hearts, just as we’ve done for generations.
With gratitude and VIKING pride,
Jeff Blair
Jeff Blair Director of Advancement
239.274.6788, ext.6788
jeff.blair@bvhs.org
This year’s Gala returned to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point and was quite the
Regal Affair!
The Gala Committee worked tirelessly to make this year’s event one to remember, and they proudly hit the mark. Guests were dressed in Regency Era fashion to go along with the Regency Garden theme. The fantastic find of ornate, antique furnishings made the posed photos fabulous. Lisa Spooner, news anchor at Gulf Coast News (formerly NBC2), returned as the Master of Ceremonies and Bishop Dewane offered the blessing.
The over 200 hundred guests, along with online bidders, had over 40 themed baskets to consider making their own. There were also great live auction items, including three vacation spot get-aways, allowing for some thrilling and spirited bidding. After a great video explaining the impact of technology on learning, guests answered generously to the call for donations to enhance technology for integration in the classroom.
Photo (left to right): Lisa Spooner (Gulf Coast News Anchor), Gala Committee, Bishop Dewane
We would like to thank our many sponsors for making this event possible.
TITLE SPONSOR
Church of the Resurrection
DIAMOND SPONSOR
St. Columbkille Catholic Church
GOLD SPONSORS
St. John XXIII Catholic Church
St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church
St. Andrew Catholic Church & School
The Brian Family
SILVER SPONSORS
Renegades Sportswear
St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church
Owen-Ames-Kimball Company
Studio 4 Architecture
Landsberg Bennett Private Wealth Management
Titan Construction
BRONZE SPONSORS
Edison National Bank
Naples Transportation
St. Cecilia Parish
Ruotolo Associates
FBI Air
Estate Landscaping
Danis Insurance
Rise Architecture
U Build It Aluminum Center, Inc.
Introducing the 2025 Alumna of the Year MEGAN O’GRADY ’20
In the summer before Megan’s freshman year at Verot, the tragedy of the Dallas policer shooting occurred. As the daughter of an officer, the event impacted her deeply, as she sympathized with the families of the fallen officers. As she completed her summer reading, This I Believe, and the accompanying writing assignment, she was reminded of the summer’s event. As she articulated her own beliefs, she focused on her support of law enforcement while also realizing the risks involved and how they could impact her family. As a member of Scholars Academy, she was charged with completing a Capstone
Project – focused on helping others – and Blue Line Bears was born. Her idea – to make something for the families, children specifically, of fallen officers, that would provide comfort at a time when they needed it most. The idea evolved into taking a uniform shirt and creating a teddy bear personalized with the officer’s name, badge number, and end of watch date. It took some serious work, from initial design to the final product, with very little experience with a needle and thread. With the help of her grandmother, a prototype was created and soon after she delivered her first bear. Megan also enlisted the help of classmates with the start of the Blue Line Bears Club meeting weekly
to work on sewing and stuffing the bears. Not only was she creating something comforting for struggling families, she was also building a community of support to help see the project to fruition.
Now, eight years later, Megan and her team have delivered over 1,700 bears to families of fallen officers all over the world. She has managed to continue her mission, with the help of volunteers, as she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Central Florida and is now pursuing her master’s in Art Therapy at Florida State University. In 2019, as she was preparing college applications, the first ever Bears & Badges Gala was held to share their mission and encourage support, securing the future of Blue Line Bears. This event is now held annually each spring and has
Blue Line Bears at Club Fair
continued to grow in popularity and support.
Megan credits her time at both St. Andrew Catholic School and Bishop Verot for instilling the passion to help others. “Blue Line Bears would probably not have been started had I not been taught the importance of community service and putting others needs before your own.”
She also shared how the support of her teachers helped keep her motivated. “I spent a lot of lunch periods in my teacher’s rooms where they all shared admiration for what I had started and encouragement to continue.”
Each year, one graduate is honored who exemplifies the mission of Verot by living out the principles taught far beyond their high school years. Megan has been a shining example of this, bringing comfort to so many during a time of tremendous loss. She has been honored by law enforcement organizations all over
the country in the past eight years. Most recently, she joined a select few honorees at the Florida Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee with Governor DeSantis, for the 2025 Florida Heroes Reception. It seems only fitting for Bishop Verot to honor her as well, the very place where it all began.
After a very heartfelt message, Mrs. O’Grady awarded her daughter, Megan, with the 2025 Alumna of the Year award during the annual Gala in March.
If you are interested I learning more about Blue Line Bears, please visit their website at bluelinebears.org or follow them on Facebook. BG
Megan with Governor and First Lady DeSantis
Mrs. Suzie O’Grady with Megan –Alumna of the Year
Alumni Spotlight John Gavin ’09
I’ve been fortunate to travel the world doing what I love, performing music in the show STOMP. Now in its thirtieth year, STOMP brings drumming, dance and comedy into an opera of everyday sounds. For the last eight years, I’ve been part of the cast making music with brooms, matches, shopping carts, trash cans and even my own hands and feet. This June marks the end of our current touring season and a prodigal return to the area that made me. The skills I learned at Verot gave me the foundations to succeed. I got my first job bagging groceries and collecting shopping carts at Publix during the summer before my sophomore year. Soon after, a music catalogue arrived in the mail and, on a whim, I spent my first $300 on a drum set. This quickly sparked a curiosity and love for music that was nurtured by the band director, Ms. Maureen Steger. She exposed me to workshops, clinicians and performances in the area that increased my insatiable desire for all things drumming. She also directed the drumline which I joined my Junior year. Those fledgling performances at assemblies, games and parades, sharing music while entertaining others, gave me a taste of playing music. I immediately fell in love with performing and being able to empower communities. That interest coincided with the love for the craft and artistry found within musical expression. During those formative years, Verot instilled a sense of growth and improvement in me that extended beyond those walls. A constant prodding to achieve more in this world you’re leaning about. During his commencement address I recall our principal at the time, Father Beretta, urge us to continue striving for more in life. After leaving BV, I was proud of the work I did and the education I gained, but I knew more difficult journeys lie ahead.
My passion for music blossomed further through thousands of hours of practice and rehearsals at the University of Central Florida. I was challenged in numerous ways. Fortunately, through patience and perseverance, I discovered that UCF was the perfect incubator for my career dreams, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education. After UCF, a place I found transformative, I journeyed to New York City with a dream and not much else. During the second year of my graduate studies at New York University I took a STOMP audition after a push from my professor. I grew more confident with each passing round and eventually was offered a full-time contract in NYC in the fall of 2017, ten years after my start in BV’s drumline. That decade was filled with failure, rejection, doubt, and solitude in practice rooms; all things musicians know intimately well. To top it all off I was able to continue my studies at NYU and graduate with a Master of Music.
Performing in STOMP has taken me to places across the US, Canada and Japan. The groundwork I gained at BV only helped carve my path. We both assist and benefit from those within our communities. To this day, the friends and relationships I made at Verot hold strong and continue enriching my life with love. Non Excidet was an ethos I’ve taken with me long after I left those halls. Giving into failure is a choice. I’m grateful for my teachers’ patience and expertise even after demonstrating I wasn’t always deserving of it. I hope to reconnect with those very teachers and alumni when STOMP performs on June 3rd and 4th at Artis Naples. BG
ACTION Catholics in
Catholics in Action, or CIA as it is referred to around campus, continues to be one of our most popular and well-attended clubs. The group meets weekly, planning events to grow in faith and inspire others to do the same.
Once again, a record number of students traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 52nd Annual March for Life, celebrating life. This year’s theme of “Life: Why We March” focused on the pro-life movement’s core message of protecting the unborn and supporting their mothers. Students weathered the cold temperatures during the March and also participated in the many events leading up to the Rally and March.
Bishop Verot students traveled to Tallahassee to represent Bishop Verot Catholic High School and the Diocese of Venice at the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol. Wearing red, the Catholic community gathered together in our state capitol to learn about the legislative process, advocate for policies promoting human life and dignity, and to pray for our elected officials.
Looking ahead, students will continue their faith journey this summer by attending Camp Veritas and the Ave Maria Youth Leadership Conference. Both events will give our students the opportunity to join in fellowship with other students their age and learn how they can be true disciples of Christ. BG
Christ the Teacher 2025 –
Pete Orsita decided to change career paths three years ago and found his way into the Physics classroom at Bishop Verot. To say he jumped right in is putting it mildly. Not only is he navigating lesson plans, classroom management, assessments, and grading, he has also tackled coaching and moderating clubs – three of them. He took over leadership of HOSA, Future Healthcare Workers of America and the Science National Honor Society. Members have participated in a beach clean-up project, offered tutoring to struggling classmates, learned CPR, and visited the Lee Memorial Robotic Surgery Operating Room. It was here students had the opportunity to learn about the evolution of surgery and operate the robot. HOSA members also visited Neogenomics this spring, where they learned about the specialty lab that processes cancer samples and some of the non-patientfacing career opportunities available in healthcare.
Mr. Orsita also introduced a new
Mr. Pete Orsita
club, Vikings for Heroes, centered on assisting and honoring veterans. Club members have participated in food pantries by assisting with distribution of food, volunteering at the VA sorting and distributing clothes to the homeless, transporting patients, and helping at their annual Veterans Christmas party. They welcomed home veterans who participated in Honor Flights this year. And they held a fundraiser for the Wreaths Across America program and then placed over 300 wreaths on the veteran’s graves at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens.
In the classroom, Mr. Orsita begins his class prayer, believing that praying with and for each other brings us closer together. He also likes to celebrate the church’s contributions to science. When asked what he loves most about teaching at Verot, his answer is one echoed across the campus, “I love the sense of community, the family environment.” As the recipient of this year’s Christ the Teacher award, clearly he greatly contributes to
the community, family environment that is the foundation of our mission.
The annual Christ the Teacher Award is given to the teacher who the students see as a living example of Christ, making the Verot family stronger, whose faith in God is evident, and who sacrifices their time and talent for the good of others.
“When I accepted this award I was, for the first time in my life, speechless. It is the award I am most proud of.”
Pete was awarded Christ the Teacher during the Catholic Schools Week Mass. He was joined by his family – his wife, Lisa, two sons, Vincenzo ’29 and Giovanni ’26, and mother-in-law, Sandra. BG
Photo above: Mr. Orsita in the classroom.
Photo right: students at the Robotic Surgery OR.
Vikings for Heroes at the VA Food Pantry
Mr. Pete Orsita with his family
Athletic Guide Spring2025
Baseball
2025 Varsity Baseball Team
2025 Varsity Baseball Roster
Nico Ayars
Cameron Berrios – Senior
Grayson Carpenter – Senior
Carter Chalder
Jessie Feast
Kyle Green
Blake Lavenia
Joey Lawson
Eric Parker
Nick Raber
Owen Rardin – Senior
Tyler Reeder
Anthony Reitler
Jayden Salazar
Kayson Sands
Jake Sedmack
Boston Selig
Braylon Sheffield
Teegan Tyler
Tyler Wyman – Senior
Head Coach
Baseball
Coach Casey Scott enters his 6th season at the helm of Bishop Verot's Baseball program. Coach Scott has served as a member of the USA baseball task-force as a scout for the 15u and 17u National teams for the past several years. Coach Scott has also served in every capacity at the college level, beginning as a volunteer, climbing to associate head coach and recruiting coordinator, and then head coach. His collegiate experience includes SUNY Cortland, the College at Brockport and Ave Maria University. In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, Coach Scott was named the New York Collegiate Baseball League (NYCBL) Coach of the Year after leading the Syracuse Jr. Chiefs to the league title. Scott resides in Fort Myers with his wife, Nicole.
Casey Scott
Assistant Coach
Bryan Marotta
Assistant Coach
Rick Flock
Not pictured: Pasquale Evangelista
Baseball
2025 Varsity Baseball Seniors
Cameron Berrios Greyson Carpenter Owen Rardin Taylor Wyman
Baseball
2025 JV Baseball Team
Head Coach
Dan Tufariello
Assistant Coach
Adam Childs
Not Pictured: Stacey Davis
Softball
2025 Varsity Softball Team
2025 Varsity Softball Senior
Crimson Lawrence
Jaelyn Riley McKenna Robbins Alexalys Torres
Softball
Head Coach
Chris Gatewood
Chris Gatewood is in his fifth year as Head Softball Coach. Coach Gatewood’s coaching career began in 2008 as a volunteer Coach in the local Little League programs, of which he continued dedicating his time and knowledge through 2014. Since then, Coach Gatewood has successfully Managed an Elite Softball travel organization, most recently placing second in the 2020 USA Softball Junior Olympic Cup and placing first in the 2020 USA Elite Select Softball Southeast National Qualifier. Coach Gatewood also previously served as the Assistant Varsity Softball Coach at Fort Myers High School (2017-2019) where he helped lead the team to 7A-State Champions his first year, and back to the final four the following two years. Coach Gatewood has four children, Hailey, Aubrey (’24), Kinsley and Cambrey and a granddaughter, Harper. Coach Gatewood and his wife, Jessica, reside in Cape Coral.
Assistant Coach
Craig Norland
Assistant Coach
Justin Robbins
2025 Varsity Softball Roster
Samantha Barner
Paige Betterman
Ashley Blexrud
Maddie Brady
Payton Breadmore
Abby Goff
Crimson Lawrence – Senior
Hailey MacNeil
Willa Pagnutti
Jaelyn Riley – Senior
McKenna Robbins – Senior
Alexalys Torres – Senior
Tianna Wolfson
Boys Lacrosse
2025 Boys Varsity Lacrosse Team
2025 Boys Varsity Lacrosse Roster
Mason Alleva – Senior
Jack Benaitis – Senior
Jett Berning – Senior
Bo Brooke – Senior
Vance Byrd
Brendan Cronin – Senior
Hayden Dahl
Brody Evanoski
Dylan Feeney
Lucian Freshwaters – Senior
Dwayne Garcia
Dylan Gehrs
Kyler Genrich
Connor Greer
Ryan Holter – Senior
Harrison Kaminsky – Senior
Bobby Leckler – Senior
Mason Mangold – Senior
Kasen Mapes – Senior
Logan Meyer
Charles Muddell
Joey Naples
Landon Parker – Senior
Weston Rardin
Connor Ray
Jake Rodriguez – Senior
Patricio Rodriguez
Drew Schmidt
Brody Seglem – Senior
Trenton Stejskal – Senior
Moose Stejskal
Wade Swartz – Senior
Bennett Sweitzer
Ricky Swift
Nico Velez
Carson Webber
Head Coach
Boys Lacrosse
Brian Ray is in his first year as Head Coach of the Varsity Boys Lacrosse team, after having served as an assistant coach for the past two years. With over a decade of coaching experience spanning from New York to Florida, Coach Ray brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new position. As a coach with a strong background in both playing and coaching lacrosse, he is dedicated to shaping the next generation of talented athletes and instilling in them the values of hard work, sportsmanship, and determination. Brian resides in Cape Coral with his wife, Stacey, and their two children, Brianna ’25 and Conner ’28.
Brian Ray
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Dave Manzi
Colin Manzi
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Nick Colavito
Justin O'Hara
Boys Lacrosse
2025 Boys Lacrosse Seniors
Jack Benaitis
Landon Parker
Harrison Kaminsky
Bo Brooke
Jake Rodriguez
Ryan Holter
Wade Swartz
Bobby Leckler
Brendan Cronin
Brody Seglem Kasen Mapes
Lucian Freshwaters
Trenton Stejskal
Mason Mangold
Not Pictured: Mason Alleva, Jett Berning
Boys Lacrosse
2025 Boys JV Lacrosse Team
2025 Boys JV Lacrosse Roster
Jacob Andrews
Wayne Ash
Leo Barbato
Jagger Berning
Cooper Brist
Dominic Chapman
Colt Crawford
Pedro Fernandez
Cedric Francois
Peyton Frederic
Shane Griffiths
Austin Gunn
Kellan Hall
Lemuel Jean-Baptiste
Ross Johnston
Noah Keating
Nikolaj Koby
Caleb Malo
Logan Meyer
Sean Michael
Dean Nicholas
Thomas Pico
Luke Redmond
Will Reese
Connor Roach
Jed Speake
Damian Snyder
Nicholas Valez
Dave Manzi
Colin Manzi
Nick Colavito
Girls Lacrosse
2025 Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team
2025 Girls Varsity Lacrosse Roster
Samantha Albert
Sophia Cedeno
Maddie Cronin
Riley Hartley
Norah Kaminsky
Lily Lockard – Senior
Emma Lukosaitis
Aubrey Murnane
Clare Murnane
Betty Nolan
Daphne O’Hara – Senior
Brianna Ray – Senior
Jane Reilly
Olivia Schilling
Liz Schlager – Senior
Lilee Simons – Senior
Shea Swartz
Maggie Swift
Margaux Teschke
Samantha Till
Caroline Ward
Addison Wolfe
Girls Lacrosse
Head Coach
Coach Lockard is in her second season as Head Coach of the Girls Lacrosse team. A 2016 graduate, she was a 4-year varsity member of the Golf, Soccer, and Lacrosse teams at Verot. After graduation, Coach Lockard attended Saint Anselm College and was a defender for the Hawk's Lacrosse program. Coach Lockard played a vital role in the Hawk’s defense as a top leader in ground balls and forced turnovers, as well as landing a spot in the Saint Anselm Athletics Record Books for most ground balls in a single game as well as for total career caused turnovers. Coach Lockard was selected to the 2017 Northeast -10 Conference All -Rookie Team and was selected to multiple Northeast -10 Fall Commissioner’s Honor Rolls during her 4-year career. After graduating college, Coach Lockard spent three years as Girls lacrosse coach at Suffield High School, before returning to Verot. At her time at Suffield, Coach Lockard helped lead the team to two state playoff berths. Lauren, and her husband Connor, reside in Fort Myers with their golden, Birdie.
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Lauren Lockard '16
Justin O'Hara
Christy Curtis
Lily Lockard
Daphne O'Hara
Brianna Ray
Girls Lacrosse
2025 Girls JV Lacrosse Team
JV Head Coach
Justin O'Hara
2025 Girls JV Lacrosse Roster
Riley Biada
Sophia Cedeno
Amanda Dente
Ghia Donley
Charlotte Hall
Riley Hartley
Norah Kaminsky
Dylan Kendrick
Alexandra Korpi
Maria Kramer
Julia Martin
Maggie Martin
Brooke Metcalf
Makayla Mitchell
Grace Sheldon
Shea Swartz
Isabella Torres
Ela Vatthyam
Chloe Vigneault
Weightlifting
2025 Boys Weightlifting Team
2025 Boys Weightlifting Roster
Jack Benaitis – Senior
Alejandro Carbonell – Senior
Sean Michael Curran
Justin Davis – Senior
Alec Dusold
Dennis Forte
Aaron Fountain
Matthew Graziano – Senior
Connor Greer
Noah Hegi-Jones
Chase Horner
Deshon Jenkins
Noah Keating
Andrew Kennedy
Liam Kral
Lukas McDonald
Oliver McGee
Will Meyers
Ryan Nanda
Bobby Nolan
Tiago Passos
Nicholas Pertesis
Henry Phillips – Senior
Sonny Tokotaha – Senior
Weightlifting
Brett Barry ’03 is in his fifth season as Head Coach of the Boys Weightlifting team. Coach Barry has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management from Valparaiso University. Coach Barry is also an assistant coach for the Football program.
2025
Boys Weightlifting Seniors
Head Coach
Brett Berry
Assistant Coach
Jeff Richards
Henry Phillips
Sonny Tokotaha
Seniors not pictured: Jack Benaitis, Alejandro Carbonell, Matthew Graziano
Track & Field
2025 Boys Track & Field Team
2025 Boys Track & Field Roster
Ethan Alexander
Mason Alleva – Senior
Jerry Ashley – Senior
Alex Barnum
Luke Bauer
Mark Brazley
Jadrien Carmo
Jacob Carter
Peyton Carter – Senior
Rafael Casillas – Senior
Wyatt Cihlar
Manuel Colon
Brady Conti
Robenson Duclona
Thomas Eichten
Nicholas Gaeta
Jyden German
Christian Ginart
Ayden Gonzalez
Eddie Gore
Brandon Hall
Ismael Hernandez
Mario Jacome
Deshon Jenkins
Alec Kent
Andrew Latell
Matthew Latell
James Little IV – Senior
Josh Little
Andrew Marino – Senior
Luke Mitchell
Dutch Nolan
Dennis Olsen – Senior
Ryan Peterson – Senior
Joey Sands
Alec Sergi
Ethan Swanson – Senior
Dominic Torres – Senior
William Truax
Brooks Warton
Marquis Young
Zachary Zielke – Senior
Track & Field
2025 Boys Track & Field Seniors
Zachary Zieke
Rafael Casillas
Dennis Olsen
Jerry Ashley
James Little IV
Ryan Peterson
Dominic Torres
Andrew Marino
Seniors not pictured: Mason Alleva, Peyton Carter, Ethan Swanson
Head Coach
Webber
Track & Field
Jen Webber leads the Track & Field program as Head Coach of both the girls and boys teams. Coach Webber, who also joined the faculty this past year, comes from a long history of running and fitness, participating in eight years of cross country (as well as gymnastics / softball) throughout high school in Central PA. She completed Marine Corp Officer training while in attendance at Penn State University and immediately took on coaching roles within the State College Area School District Softball and CrossCountry programs. After moving to the Pittsburgh area, she stepped into the head coaching position for the Mars Area High School Track & Field and Cross-Country program. In her off time, Coach Webber is an active marathon competitor and enjoys coaching adults and athletes in their distance running pursuits. She is excited to spread her passion for the sport with the Verot athletes.
Jen
Martin Byrd
Jeff Rehm
Richie Rode Tyler Stowell
Not pictured: Joe McMasters, Lisa Nolan
Track & Field
2025 Girls Track & Field Team
2025 Girls Track & Field Roster
Deniella Aponte
Elise Bolgiano – Senior
Ally Buckley
Alexis Bulawan
Giuseppina Cacciatore
Lauren Chlumsky
Daphne Dalton – Senior
Mackenzie DeLisle – Senior
Lila Dinkle
Khloe Ebersohl
Sarah Engel
Chyna Fain
Kinsley Fry
Anabella Garibay
Gianna Gyurich
Grace Illum – Senior
Caroline Juda – Senior
Leah Kowal
Amarys Llanes
Celina Luciano
Leydi Manahan
Zoe McCurry
Mia McMasters
Victoria Mendoza
Caroline Muddell – Senior
Priscilla Naik
Angelina Perez
Denise Ramirez – Senior
Grace Riley
Sofia Roman – Senior
Erika Romero – Senior
Andrea Santiago
Lana Schmidt
Lea Scotti
Dayde Stambaugh
Jocelyn Sweeney – Senior
Savannah Truax
Ellianna Trunkett – Senior
Track & Field
2025 Girls Track & Field Seniors
Daphne Dalton
Caroline Muddell
Erika Romero
Elise Bolgiano
Mackenzie DeLisle
Denise Ramirez
Jocelyn Sweeney
Sofie Roman
Ellianna Trunkett
Caroline Juda
Senior not pictured: Grace Illum
Tennis
2025 Boys Tennis Team
Head Coach
Mark Latell
Mark Latell is in his 14th year as the Varsity Boys Tennis Coach. Mark is a 1983 Verot alumnus with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Georgia Tech. Mark moved back to his hometown of Fort Myers 14 years ago joining the Verot faculty as a teacher in the Math department. Mark and his wife Deanna, also a Verot graduate, have five children, Danielle ’20, Anna, David ’24, Matthew ’26, and Andrew ’28.
Tennis
2025 Boys Tennis Seniors
2025 Boys Tennis Roster
Carranza – Senior
Mark Chung
Ben Dryden
Orlando Fernandez
Ryan Gordon
Ryan Kendrix
Nolan Leef
Jacob Mast – Senior
David Molheim
Michal Nawalany – Senior
Julien Rodriguez – Senior
Chris Carranza
Jacob Mast
Michal Nawalany
Julien Rodriguez
Chris
Tennis
2025 Girls Tennis Team
2025 Girls Tennis Roster
Leah Chung
Sara Chrysler
Samantha Ellis
Summer Jacobs
Hannah Manibo – Senior
Cayla Rhodes
Sophie Rodriguez – Senior
El Satkoski
Head Coach
Tennis
Anne Kearns is in her fourth season as the Varsity Girls Tennis Coach. Coach Kearns is a graduate of the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. She continues to take her place on the court as a 4.0 tennis player. Coach Kearns is also the parent of two Verot Alumni tennis players, Thomas ’16 and Christian ’20.
2025 Girls Tennis Seniors
Anne Kearns
Sophie Rodriguez
Hannah Manibo
Beach Volleyball
2025 Beach Volleyball Team
2025 Beach Volleyball Roster
Sidney Blackwood
Caroline Hathaway
Chase Hathaway
Cameron Hedge
Charlotte Hildebrand – Senior
Carley Himshoot
Maddie Knaak – Senior
Ava Lin
Haylee Masiero – Senior
Simone Perdue
Madelynn Wells
Beach Volleyball
Head Coach
Katie Scafidi returns to Verot to lead the Beach Volleyball team. Katie is a proud Bishop Verot alumna, having played on the indoor Varsity Volleyball and Varsity Softball teams in 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009. She also competed in beach volleyball, qualifying for the AAU Junior Olympics. During her first year at the University of Central Florida (UCF), Katie played on their inaugural beach volleyball team. With a lifelong passion for the sport, Katie is excited to embark on her first year coaching the Vikings. Katie, and her husband, Richy, reside in Fort Myers with their two children, Caden and Marlee.
2025 Beach Volleyball Seniors
Katie Scafidi
Assistant Coach
Mike Curtis
Charlotte Hildebrand
Maddie Knaak Haylee Masiero
Girls Flag Football
2025 Flag Football Team
2025 Flag Football Roster
Elise Bolgiano – Senior
Ally Buckley
Daphne Dalton – Senior
Lila Dinkle
Sarah Engel
Riley Gunn
Lainey Hooper – Senior
Ava Huffer
Grace Illum – Senior
Kinsey Kennedy – Senior
Avah Kipp
Courtney Kreitzer
Anna Lesniak – Senior
Mia MacDuff
Melanie Moreno – Senior
Isabella Munoz
Cameron O’Halloran – Senior
Gwendolyn Pfleger – Senior
Grace Riley
Ava Rogers
Sofia Roman – Senior
Addison Slaybaugh – Senior
Adele VonGruben
Girls Flag Football
Head Coach
David Villegas is in his first year coaching Flag Football at Bishop Verot. Coach Villegas also coaches Football in the fall as the program’s Varsity Defensive Coordinator and Strength and Conditioning/Sports Performance Coordinator. In the Winter, Coach Villegas also helps coach the Girls Weightlifting team here at Verot. David has a Master of Science in Sports Studies and Coaching Education from Ohio University and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Ithaca College. David and his wife, Ariel, have two young future Vikings; Jordan and Cameron.
2025 Flag Football Seniors
David Villegas
Assistant Coach
Larry Overstreet
Elise Bolgiano Daphne Dalton
Lainey Hooper
Grace Illum Kinsey Kennedy
Anna Lesniak Melanie Moreno
Cameron O'Halloran Sofia Roman Addison Slaybaugh
Not pictured: Gwendolyn Pfleger
BAILEY FORTIER HAYNICX ’16
Bailey and Josh Haynicz were married in January. The couple met while attending Florida State University. Bailey, following in her father’s footsteps, is also working in an emergency room, serving as an ER nurse at Tampa General, and Josh works in cyber-security. The couple resides in Tampa.
CAILYN (RIZZO) HOLMES ’12 AND CALVIN HOLMES ’11
Calvin and Cailyn welcomed their daughter, Audrey Joan, in February. Big brother Rhett (2) is pretty happy to have a sister. Calvin is an account manager for Suncoast Beverage and Cailyn is a sales consultant for FreshPoint Produce. The family resides in Cape Coral.
Alumni Calendar
CLASS OF 2015 REUNION – the planning committee is working on preparations for a ten-year reunion. Please watch the Bishop Verot Class of 2015 Facebook page for updates.
HOMECOMING 2025
– Mark your calendars for October 24, 2025 and plan to return to campus to reconnect with your fellow alumni. The annual Alumni Tailgate will take place in the Senior Courtyard prior to the game and all alumni will be admitted free of charge.
Please send any upcoming reunion information to patty.holmes@bvhs.org for future B&G publications. Thank you!
Alumni Sports
SAVANNAH NIPPA '20
lenoir university - track & field
Nippa competed in all four throwing events - shot put, javelin, hammer, and discus - during her senior season at NCAA Division II Lenoir Rhyne. The senior was a top ten finisher at the South Atlantic Conference Championship in both the hammer throw and the javelin throw, setting a new personal best in the javelin throw with a mark of 30.52 meters. She was also a top ten finisher in the conference in the shot put at the Indoor Track Championships in March.
CONOR CRANFIELD '21
u.s. naval academy swimming
The former state champion continued to excel during his time in Annapolis. The senior was part of two ECAC championship relay times, helping the Midshipmen to titles in the 400 yard freestyle relay and the 800 yard freestyle relay. Individually, he qualified for two “A” finals at the ECAC Open Championships, finishing in second place in the 200 yard freestyle with a season best time of 1:36.82 and finishing in fourth place in the 500 yard freestyle with another season best time of 4:28.17.
ROBERT FLANNERY '21
niagara university swimming
Flannery had a successful senior season at Niagara University, helping the Purple Eagles to a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship. Flannery advanced to the finals in three events at the conference championship meet, placing in the top 15 in the conference in 100 yard breaststroke, 200 yard breaststroke, and 200 yard individual medley. His top event was the 200 yard breaststroke, where he set a season best of 2:00.73 and finished in eighth place in the league.
MADISON THOMAS '22
ave maria university track & field
Thomas excelled in a new event during her second year on the Ave Maria campus. The junior became a top runner in the 3000 meter steeplechase, winning the Sun Conference championship in the event by more than 50 seconds. Thomas’ top time of 11:38.14 ended the season among the top 30 teams in the nation in the NAIA. Thomas was also a top-five finisher in The Sun Conference, one of the NAIA’s most competitive leagues, in the 5000 meter race.
GERI HERRERA '23
university of north carolina pembrock track & field
In her first season at NCAA Division II UNC Pembroke, Herrera immediately placed her name in the school record books. During the indoor season, Herrera logged a 200 meter time of 25.10 and was part of a 4x400 meter relay time of 3:58.06, both school records. Herrera placed fifth in the Conference Carolinas in the 200 meters at the Indoor Championships, and helped the Braves to a second place finish in the 4x400 meter relay.
MORGAN FRANKLIN '24
samford university golf
Franklin earned a place in the lineup for Samford in her first season of collegiate golf. The freshman ended the 2025 spring season with a scoring average of 79.5 across 28 rounfd of play, and was part of Samford’s group of five golfers that competed at the 2025 SoCon Women’s Golf Championship. Her best outing came at the Mercer Invitational in October, where she carded rounds of 78, 76, and 74 to finish in the top half of the field.
MARISSA PECK '24
spring hill college beach volleyball
Part of the 2024 Southwest Florida Beach Volleyball Pair of the Year, Peck continued her success into the collegiate ranks. Peck was part of Spring Hill’s second flight, recording a record of 15-13 with her partner. Spring Hill’s schedule included contests with powerhouse programs such as Florida State and LSU, and wins over top NAIA program Mobile. Spring Hill advanced to the quarterfinal round of the AVCA Small College Beach Championship, making it to the quarterfinals.
�e Original Yucatan Shrimp
Alumni Association - Staying Connected
It is always very impactful for current students to learn from Verot alumni –those who truly understand what it means to be a student at Bishop Verot. For this year’s annual Career Day, 19 alumni returned to campus to join the long list of presenters. Representing several decades of graduates and many different career paths, these alumni shared their high school and college experiences that lead them to where they are now.
The Bishop Verot Alumni Association strives to facilitate communications among alumni. Each year, Bishop Verot hosts the Annual Homecoming Tailgate at the Homecoming Football game and assists in communicating information regarding upcoming Class Reunions.
Please also be sure to follow the new Bishop Verot Alumni Association Facebook page (even if you have already done so – the page has been updated). Our Assistant Director of Special Events, Donor and Alumni Relations, Crystal Melton (crystal.melton@bvhs.org), is working hard to connect with our alumni and Facebook is a great resource. Please also consider updating your contact information at bvhs.org under the Alumni tab.
John Gargano ’13, owner of Rise Architectural Design Group
Frank Aloia, Jr. ’89 – Senior Partner at Aloia Roland Attorneys at Law
Jenna Palmer ’11 – Teacher at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School
National Merit Scholarship Program Finalists
It has been many years since Verot has had multiple students awarded National Merit Scholarship Finalists. This year, four seniors were given this honor – Andrew Marino, Samantha Mitchell, Sophia Smith, and Tyler Wyman. Along with the recognition received by being named a finalist, honorees also have the opportunity to qualify for scholarship opportunities through an application process for these select students. This prestigious recognition is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence.
Students Visit NeoGenomics
Students from our Scholars Academy and HOSA groups had the incredible opportunity to visit NeoGenomics, a global leader in oncology testing and cancer diagnostics here in Southwest Florida. Students toured the facilities and learned about cutting-edge advancements in cancer research and personalized care, getting a firsthand look at what it means to be on the front lines of modern medicine. The visit was a great opportunity for students interested in the healthcare profession to explore the many career opportunities available to them.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business - Shark Tank
After a semester of hard work, students in Mr. Tufariello’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business class presented their business plans to a panel of judges in a rendition of Shark Tank. Armed with marketing plans, product mockups, and bold ideas, they pitched their way through the panel — hoping to land a deal. From creative services to realworld solutions, these students brought the hustle and the strategy. Congratulations to everyone - especially those who sealed the deal!
Verot Arts
The Impact of Artistry from the Class of 2025
By Stacey Elmeer
The steadfast, bright stars of Bishop Verot High School have colored our worlds with their powerful voices, comedic shenanigans, and gorgeous paintings and drawings. We are so grateful to the class of 2025 for sharing their God-given talents, and want to celebrate some of its artistic members. These students have spent countless hours videotaping sports games; singing with the choir in church; performing with the worship band; practicing for hours on stage while perfecting lines, songs, and choreography; painting the play sets; practicing each note for a band performance; setting the stage for plays and musicals, painting murals on the walls, and decorating doors in the halls. Please join us in congratulating the Varsity Art Stars of 2025. We know they will continue to shine.
Danica Cobian and Sarah Burns have been active participants in Verot Theater and Choir for the past four years. Sarah played leading roles in both the fall and spring productions and also has been a featured member of our dance ensemble for several productions. Danica has played several roles on the stage, but has also played a key role behind the camera. With the help of Mrs. Metevia and Mr. Davis, she has used her talent creating videos to promote our shows and serve a crucial role on the Viking News Network.
Corey Motto, Colin O’Grady, and Leo Greco gave a nod to the stage in artistic form when they worked as a team to depict a scene from
Wicked in vibrant color. In addition to bringing characters to life on stage, Leo has brought several colorful characters to life on the page while encouraging others to draw and create in his role as Art Club Co-President. Colin continues to grow his skills in graphic design in AP 2D Art while Corey experiments with photography and collage. Corey, Colin, and Leo also all played leading roles in both our fall and spring theatrical productions and competed in both of the Thespian Troupe competitions.
Maria Roa, Padraig Murray, and Seamus Murray
Maria Roa and Seamus Murray have been dedicated members of the Bishop Verot Band program since their freshman year. Maria plays percussion and drums, while Seamus heads up the brass section on trumpet. They both played in the pit orchestra for our spring musical, Curtains, which featured Padraig Murray in the leading role as Lieutenant Frank Cioffi. Padraig has been a dedicated member of theater, choir, and the Worship Band, playing several leading roles, learning intricate harmonies, and performing praise and worship music in front of the entire school. Padraig also won Outstanding Performer in a One Act for his performance in the play, Fire Exit, which won Best Overall at the SWFL Theatrical Society Festival.
For two years Kiley Lebid, Samantha Mitchell, and Grace Breen have put their hearts into making art. Samantha and Grace, Co-Presidents of Art NHS, have challenged their viewers to think outside of the box as they examine religious, environmental, and personal experiences in their art. Each of these students generously shares her talents with BVHS, and Samantha has even designed graphics for St. Cecilia Parish. Grace completed both a stained-glass window project and a mural for Campus Ministry. Ellianna, Grace, and Samantha competed in this year’s Chalk Block in downtown Ft. Myers. In addition to wowing others with her art skills, Grace Breen is an award-winning stage manager for our theater program, even winning the Outstanding Stage Manager award at the Broadway Star of the Future competition for her work on Mary Poppins. This year, she ventured onstage to play the role of the stage manager in our production of Curtains. Kiley Lebid, Co-Art Club President, has used her artistic talents to contribute to backstage work for our shows, and has also performed onstage in several of our productions. She specializes in creative makeup, and has also helped Grace paint set pieces to bring our productions up a notch. Ellianna Trunkett has one of the most difficult jobs in theater, running the 18 microphones for the actors onstage and making sure their equalizers are set properly so everyone sounds as natural as possible while also being amplified. New to AP Art, Ellianna combined media to explore contrasting worlds in her AP Art Portfolio.
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Kiley Lebid
Samantha Mitchell
Lauren Lyons
Colin O'Grady and Paddy Murray
Ethan Swanson, Laura Lyons, and Skye Dunn
Ethan is now working on his second AP Art Portfolio. His skill and sense of humor add to each painting he creates. Ethan has worked closely with Coach Gill to learn the art of woodworking and the creativity in his films for academic class projects amazes his viewers. Skye Dunn has mastered ProCreate to create electric colored animals that reveal real and raw emotion. Her appreciation for the honesty of animals and her unique style distinguish Skye. While in Photography, Laura Lyons developed the compositional skills that allowed her to thrive while making her 2D AP Art Portfolio that examines the innuendos behind body language.
Hazel Tracey and Hannah Cruz
These two performers have been a dynamic duo in choir, Worship Band, and our theater program. Additionally, they both serve as Co-Presidents of our chapter of the International Thespian Society, the honor society for theater. Both of these girls have excelled in performance and backstage capabilities, getting involved in every aspect of theater insuring each show is the best it can be. They both plan to earn their Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and continue pursuing careers in theater.
Adna Pierre, Tyra Voltaire and Czesty Ambroise
This terrific trio began onstage in choir and joined the production of Cinderella in their freshman year. Adna has displayed great leadership in the Verot Theater program as assistant stage manager and onstage performer, while Tyra uses her creativity to help in all different ways for both our shows and Thespian competitions, and Czesty leads the difficult alto harmonies
in choir and theater to make sure everyone has a leading example of how a harmony should sound.
Ronan Maughan started his freshman year as the lead role of Colonel Mustard in Clue. Since then, he’s demonstrated excellence onstage in several leading roles, such as Mr. Banks in Mary Poppins and Professor Bhaer in Little Women. He also utilized his theatricality to shine in his Debate class and leading the Debate Club.
Andrew Patterson and Henry Phillips
When the teachers returned to campus this summer, they discovered two students hard at work to help to align the tools needed to make the school year a success. Henry and Andrew spent hours setting up and tearing down equipment for streamlining broadcasts. They managed crews of students while assisting teachers as they learned to operate new equipment and broadcast software. Andrew and Henry have spent the past four years covering every sport at Bishop Verot and even traveled the state with the football team to cover away games.
While they will all be missed, we are excited to see where their art talents will take them in the future. BG
Hannah Cruz
Ronan Maughan
Adna Pierre
Hazel Tracey
Skye Dunn
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