Athletes of the Month

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Desirae Major ’12

Linden/Kansas City, Kan. Desirae competed in a variety of fencing tournaments, going undefeated at the Stevenson, Midwest, and Maine West invitationals. Nationally, Desirae finished third at Des Moines, 6th in Kansas City, and 33rd in Pittsburgh. Internationally, she placed 5th at the U17 World Cup held in Godolo, Hungary. Desirae is ranked 6th in the United States point list for U17 saber fencers. According to Coach Stefanic, “Desirae is a talented fencer who is mature, hard-working, and coachable. I have never coached someone who works so hard at developing her skills. She is a humble leader who helps other members of the team, and overall is a great role model for the Culver fencing program.”

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Blake Saylor ’10

Company C/Centennial, Colo. A captain of the CMA Prep hockey team, Blake compiled 6 goals and 15 assists during the November/December period. He currently leads the Eagles in point scoring with 21. During winter break, he spearheaded solid victories over rivals Pomfret School (Conn.), Kimball Union Academy (N.H.), Cushing Academy (Mass.), Northwood School (N.Y.), and Canterbury School (Conn.). According to Coach Al Clark, “Blake has been a leader for the Prep hockey team this season – on and off the ice. He energizes his teammates with his work ethic and determination. Blake has been recruited to play at the Air Force Academy and will be a nice addition to their program in the future.”

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Jermaine Myers ’12 Company A/Ajax, Ont.

As the Eagles point guard, Jermaine has averaged 19 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals per game. His leadership has helped CMA to impressive victories over Pioneer (21 points), Lake Forest Academy (17 points), St. Joseph (25points), Indianapolis Pike (17 points), and Mishawaka Marian (22 points). According to Coach Alan Huss, “since Christmas, Jermaine has taken a more active leadership role on the team. Against Lake Forest Academy, Jermaine willed us to victory while battling a back injury.”

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Kylee Shipley ’11 Ithaka/Culver

As a guard, Kylee currently averages 16.9 points per game, which places her in the top 10 of the South Bend Metro area. She also averages 6.2 rebounds per game, leading CGA to an 10-6 mark. Kylee was named the Most Valuable Player for the Western Reserve Invitational Tournament and guided CGA to the tournament championship. She was selected to the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association Top 100 Work-Out Team, which features the top 100 players in the state, and is on the “players to watch list” for Hoosier Hoops Magazine. According to Coach Gary Christlieb, “Kylee’s game has continued to progress to a level where she is one of the elite players in northern Indiana.”

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Juwan Brescacin ’11 Battery A/Mississauga, Ontario

Juwan Brescacin played a pivotal role in the CMA basketball team’s success in February, including notable victories over perennial power Plymouth (14 points) and No. 1-ranked Bowman Academy (team-leading 27 points). He averaged 16 points and six rebounds per game. According to Coach Alan Huss, “Juwan has improved tremendously over the second half of the season. He was an intimidating presence, both offensively and defensively, down the stretch. In addition, his effort was instrumental in the team’s 10–2 record since winter break.”

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Caitlin Juricic ’10

Ithaka/Michigan City, Ind. As the captain of the CGA Varsity Polo squad, Caitlin Juricic scored 40 goals this season against teams from the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and the University of Kentucky. Caitlin led the team all year, especially at the Interscholastic Girls Northeast Regional in Newport, R.I., where she was nominated by opposing coaches as a regional tournament allstar, and the national tournament in Ithaca, N.Y. According to Coach Elizabeth Relos, “Caitlin has always been a key player on the team. As captain, she always tried to motivate the team before games. She was a wonderful asset to our polo team, and will be missed next year.”

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Alejandro Arroyo ’10 Leon, Mexico/Company B

Alejandro Arroyo Yamin competed in a variety of local and national competitions through March and April. At the Nike Indoor Nationals in Boston, he set a new CMA indoor record in the mile. He also shined in the 5000 meters, where he finished an amazing third, setting another CMA record and earning All-American accolades. At the Hoosier State Relays at Purdue University, Alejandro finished second in the 3200 and set another CMA indoor record. He has also set additional school records at the CMA Relays, Franklin Central Showcase, and the Goshen Relays. Coach Mike Chastain said, “Alejandro continues to improve race efforts through added attention to detail in his training. He is getting better at judging his race tempo and staying more relaxed to create quality performances.”


Maddie Balchan ’10 Springfield, Ohio/Court

As the center for the CGA lacrosse team, Maddie Balchan guided the girls to a perfect 7-0 record through March and April. Maddie’s performance included scoring seven goals against some of Indiana’s strongest opponents. Against St. Joseph’s, Maddie netted the winning goal with just under two minutes to play and added four goals in a thrilling double-overtime 13-12 victory against Park Tudor. According to Coach Jill Paolini, “Maddie stands out in games where the competition is the toughest. She is a four-year senior whose leadership has been instrumental.”


Connor Eustace ’10 New Market, Ontario/ Company A

While only scoring two goals and one assist, CMA lacrosse defenseman Connor Eustace’s contributions in other aspects of the game helped to lead the Eagles’ success through April. He caused 32 turnovers, snagged 42 ground balls, and won 68 percent of his face-offs. According to Coach Jon Posner, “Connor shines in every facet of the game. He has been a tremendous asset this season. From successfully taking face-offs, to playing defense, to scoring goals, Connor plays every side of the game with tenacity, discipline, and drive. We’ve asked him to take on many different roles this season. He has risen to each challenge and helped put our team in a position to be a top 10 ranked program in the Midwest.”


Waverly Neer ’11

Russiaville, Ind./Atrium In March, Waverly Neer set CGA school and junior records in the mile at the Nike Indoor Nationals in Boston. She also finished an impressive sixth place in the 5000 meters, garnering her All-American accolades. At the CGA Relays in April, Waverly won the 1500 meter race and anchored the winning distance medley relay. At the Franklin Central Showcase, her winning time in the Miracle Mile was a record, breaking the time set by former CGA teammate Alex Banfich. According to Coach Mike Chastain, Waverly is “focused and diligent in both her physical and mental preparation for training and racing. She always presses to do her best in races and hard workout days, relaxes on easier days, but keeps things in perspective no matter the outcome.”


Maeve McHugh ’12 Atrium/Englewood, Colo.

Maeve McHugh was an instrumental part of the CGA lacrosse team, which finished with a 16-2 record and state runner-up trophy. Her season’s performance, including 52 goals, enabled her to be named to the All Northern Regional team and second team All-State. She also collected first team state all-tournament accolades. Coach Jill Paolini said, “Maeve has been an incredible asset to our team and school. She is always positive, warm, and friendly. She has a tremendous work ethic, working diligently on both individual skills and team goals. Consequently, she does both exceptionally well.”


August Scherer ’10

Troop B/Wellington, Fla. The captain of CMA’s polo team, August Scherer played a pivotal role in the team’s incredible ride to the national championship match. At the national tournament at Cornell University, August tallied 11 goals in the semifinal match and eight goals in the championship game, a 20-17 loss to the Eldorado Polo Club. August was named one of the four Tournament All-Stars for his efforts. Coach Ed Little said, “August represents playing ability, sportsmanship, commitment and leadership. He is not just a polo player with a passion for the sport. August is a young man who will continue to play polo for a lifetime.”


Ryne Sternberg ’10 Battery A/Toronto

As a member of the state champion CMA lacrosse team, Ryne Sternberg played a significant role in Culver’s quest to attain its fourth straight state title. For his efforts, he was awarded All-State honors. In the state championship game, Ryne was primarily responsible for defending St. Joseph’s best player, who averaged eight goals per game. “Ryne shut him down.” Coach Jon Posner said, “Ryne is athletic, relentless, and tough. I am certain he will eventually play at a top Division I school.”


Andrea Lin ’12

Court/Seattle, Wash. Andrea Lin was one of the reasons why the CGA varsity volleyball team was 13-5 and the runner-up at the eight-team Bremen tournament. As the libero, Lin wears a different color jersey and plays in the back row for all six rotations. In September, Lin had 163 digs off opponents’ hits and passed the ball off the serve 286 times while making only 22 errors. She was one of the Eagles’ top servers at 95 percent with 20 aces. She was named to the Wawasee All-Tournament first team by opposing coaches. “Andrea is a quiet young lady who truly leads by example,” Coach Lori Elliot said. “You can find her running sprints before or after a match – others join her just because they want to get better. After a great play on the court, she quickly runs around congratulating her teammates.”

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Juwan Brescacin ’11

Battery A/Mississauga, Ontario As a senior captain of the varsity football team, Juwan Brescacin has helped spearhead the Eagle offensive attack. In six games at wide receiver, Brescacin had 23 receptions for 344 yards and seven touchdowns – his longest being a 74yard touchdown against Northwood. His blocking has helped CMA to average five yards per carry, amassing nearly 1,000 yards rushing so far. He has two rushing touchdowns, including a 40-yard game winner against North Judson. At outside linebacker, Brescacin has 20 tackles, one interception, and two pass break-ups. Coach Andy Dorrel said, “Juwan is a superb athlete whose play motivates and encourages his teammates to play at a higher level. Not only is Juwan a playmaker, but more importantly, a tremendous leader who has earned the respect of teammates and opponents. Juwan is the type of young man that provides everyone a reason to cheer for the Eagles.”

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Waverly Neer ’11

Atrium/Russiaville, Ind. Waverly Neer ’11 has been Culver’s leading cross country runner since arriving her sophomore year. She advanced to the state meet three straight seasons, finishing 14th, seventh, then winning this fall. She is a three-time sectional and regional champion, adding a semistate title this year. Waverly set the sectional, regional, semistate, New Prairie course and CGA 5,000-meter records this year. According to Coach Mike Chastain, “Waverly’s resolve this season to be the best runner possible hit a higher level. She has always been very dedicated; however, the state meet race exemplified this determination, making sure her closest competitor never got the lead – surging over and over and over to keep the lead all the way to the finish.”

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Cameron Dabir ’11

Battery A/Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich. As co-captain of the CMA varsity soccer team and a returning first team all-conference player, Cameron Dabir exhibited his leadership on and off the field. His smart, aggressive, and diligent defensive play earned him the respect of his teammates. In addition, his ability to inspire his teammates off the field earned him further respect. Coach Jim Brugh said, “Despite being an offensive threat, Cameron was more valuable for the team thwarting opponents’ attacks on our goal. He was a huge part of helping the team win its fourth sectional championship in a row, providing two shutouts in sectional play. He has a great understanding of the game and was a joy to coach.”

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Kayla Miracle ’14

Tower/Bloomington, Ind. Wrestling at 103 pounds for the CMA team, Kayla has amassed an incredible 23-0 record, pinning 14 opponents in the process. According to Coach Matt Behling, Kayla is the first girl in Indiana High School Wrestling history to be ranked in the state. She is currently ranked 11th. Behling adds, “Kayla is an incredibly driven wrestler who seeks to do whatever it takes to perform at a high level. Consequently, she has aspirations to become an Olympic gold medalist in women’s wrestling.”

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Max Terhar

Company C/Cincinnati, Ohio Max, a captain of the CMA Prep hockey team, accumulated 15 goals and 11 assists to lead the Prep squad in scoring. He helped lead the team to a runner-up finish at the Cushing Academy Tournament over winter break and a 2-2 tie against the No. 1-ranked under-18 team in the United States. According to Coach Al Clark, “Max is a terrific leader on and off the ice. He has a strong desire to succeed, resulting in the development of a concerted work ethic. This commitment is evident in Max’s effort on the ice, in the classroom, and within the unit. However, what stands out the most concerning Max is his expectation that his coaches and teammates do the same.”

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Andrijana Cvitkovic ’13 Tower/Kraljevica, Croatia

Andy averaged 15 points, nearly 9 rebounds, and 3 assists per game for the CGA basketball team. She played a significant role in helping lead CGA to a 16–7 record and its first Sectional Championship in 14 years. She led the Eagles in scoring, field goal percentage and rebounding and led all sophomores in scoring in the South Bend area. In the Sectional Final against Rochester, Andy scored 18 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and blocked 5 shots. Often double-teamed, Andy opened up many opportunities for her teammates. Coach Gary Christlieb said, “Andy has the ability to alter the game defensively, which is a trait very few players possess.”

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Jermaine Myers ’12

Company A/Ajax, Ontario Jermaine is averaging 20.4 points, 4.2 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 4 steals. His influential play has helped guide the CMA basketball to a 13–6 record. In three of the last four games, Jermaine has scored over 20 points, but he has also led the Eagles in assists, including 14 assists in the game against Fall Creek Academy. He just recently broke the 1,000-point mark as a junior. Coach Mark Galloway said, “Jermaine is one of our leaders statistically, but, more importantly, he is also one of our hardest workers in practice. His teammates respect him because he leads by example and he understands that the ‘Star of the Team is the Team’.”

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Desirae Major ’12 Linden/Olathe, Kan.

As a member of the Culver fencing team, Desirae won three Great Lakes Conference meets, finishing 33-0. She also won the Stevenson Invitational, Catholic Memorial Invitational and Great Lakes Conference Championship. Individually, Desirae finished second in the U17 bracket at the North American Cup and a similar tournament in Dallas. She was 9th at U17 World Cup in Warszawa, Poland; 17th at the U17 World Cup in Stuttgart, Germany; 16th in U17 World Cup in London; and 6th in U20 World Cup tournament in Phoenix. Desirae then won the USA Junior (U20) National Championship, becoming the first fencer from a high school program – not a club – to ever win the championship. Coach Igor Stefanic said, “I can say that I never had anyone so talented and dedicated to the sport. Her work ethic over the last two years is now paying dividends. If she continues to improve with her fencing the way she did in last two years, she will have the ability to compete for the USA team at 2016 Olympics.”

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Anthony McHugh ’13

Battery A/Lewis Center, Ohio Wrestling at 119 pounds, Anthony compiled an impressive 40-4 season record, including 31 pins. He won championships at the CMA Early Bird Super Dual, Winamac Super Six, Logansport Super Dual, Knox Super Dual, CMA New Year’s Super Dual, CMA Invitational, and sectional championship. Anthony, who was ranked during the season as high as third in his weight class, was recognized as an Indiana AllState wrestler and State Finalist. Coach Matt Behling said, “Anthony had an outstanding 3rd classman year. He led by example and became one of the team captains. His encouragement, work ethic, and confidence, helped guide his teammates to a 22-7 dual meet season.”

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Waverly Neer ’11

Atrium/Russiaville, Ind. Waverly Neer ’11 (Russiaville, Ind.) literally ran away from the pack at the state track meet, setting records in 1,600 and 3,200 races. In the 1600, she shattered the old state record of 4:49.38 with a time of 4:43.46. Just 90 minutes later, she won the 3,200 in 10:20.66, breaking the old record of 10:24.29. Neer, who is going to Columbia in the fall, also won the 3,000-meter run at U.S. Junior Outdoor Track & Field Championships with a time of 9:16.23; finished fourth in the two-mile run at the New Balance Nationals; finished third at 3000 meters in the prestigious Penn Relays; and set a national record of 16:35.15 in the indoor 5,000 meters at the New Balance Indoor Nationals.

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David DeVries ’11

Battery A/Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. CMA swimmer David DeVries ’11 was one of two champions coming out of the Warsaw Sectional. DeVries won the 200 freestyle in a time of 1:47.18, which broke a 29-year-old school record of 1:48.00. DeVries, who was a team captain, also placed second in the 100 free, and was a member of the second-place 200 free relay team at the sectional.

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Maeve McHugh ’12 Atrium/Englewood, Colo.

Midfielder/attack Maeve McHugh ’12 was named a regional All-American representing Indiana, and received first team Indiana All-State and All-Tournament honors after helping the CGA lacrosse team to a state runner-up finish this season. McHugh was also picked to play in the Women’s Division National Tournament over Memorial Day weekend, playing on the Indiana/ Kentucky combined team. McHugh led the team with 57 goals and was second in assists with 16.

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Coltan Armitage ’11

Company A/Shelburne, Ontario Goalie Coltan Armitage ’11 helped the Eagles lacrosse team start the season with a 3-1 record over its spring break trip, then led it to a 19-3 record and mentions in the two national publications as the best team in the Midwest. Armitage also was the ninth Culver player to receive All-American honors and the first CMA goalie. He was also named first-team All-State. He will continue his playing career at Hobart, an NCAA Division I school.

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Kyle Bartelman ’13

Company C/Noblesville, Ind. Kyle Bartelman has helped guide the CMA varsity baseball team to a 12-1 record. Kyle has a .370 batting average with six doubles and one triple. He has scored 17 times and has added 20 runs batted in. He has struck out only once this season. As a pitcher, Kyle is undefeated with a 4-0 record. He has struck out 29 and has surrendered only 16 hits. According to Coach Christiansen, “Kyle is a quiet and steady leader. He is dedicated and works to improve his skills every day. His approach to the game makes the people around him better.”

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Athletes of the Month

The Varsity 8+ consists of stroke and team captain Stephanie Thompson ’11, Monica Weaser ’12, Aly Schmit ’12, Cassidy Thornton ’12, Sophia Grazian ’12, Carson Canonie ’12, Caroline Schurr ’13, Vanessa Morales ’12, and coxswain Claire Lee ’11.

The CGA Varsity 8+ is undefeated with a record of 8-0. CGA has placed first in all of its regattas, including the Indiana/ Kentucky championship and the Culver Regatta. They will be racing in the Midwest Scholastic Championship this coming weekend. The members of the Varsity 8 also constitute the Varsity four, which is 7-1, with first place finishes at three regattas, including the Indiana/Kentucky championship), the 2nd Varsity 4, which is 7-2, and the Varsity quadruple scull, which is 5-0.

Girls Varsity 8+


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