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BISHOP VEROT’S ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2014

GRADUATING SENIORS CIRCLE OF LIFE AT BISHOP VEROT ALUMNI OF THE YEAR

Members

The Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane Msgn. Stephen E. McNamara Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk Directors

John Petracco, President Maria De Santo, Vice President Peter McPartland, Treasurer Denise Da Silveira, Secretary Vito Manone ~ Janet Beach ~ Michele Tromble George Browning, Esq. ~ Dave Ryan ~ Barbara Caldwell

+ Serving Donors + Securing Gifts + Stewarding Long-term Financial Resources + D i o c e s e o f Ve n i c e + 9 4 1 - 4 4 1 - 1 1 2 4 + w w w. c c f @ d i o c e s e o f v e n i c e . o r g

TABLE OF CONTENTS Letter from the Principal

Alumni of the Year

Memories of Mardi Gras

Graduating Seniors ~ Circle of Life at Bishop Verot

Christ the Teacher

Spring Athletic Guide

School Notes

Letter from the Director of Development

Athletic Hall of Fame

Reflections of a Student

Alumni Notes

John A. Cavell, Jr

Kathryn Kelly '73

Matt Herting

Gina Lombardo

By Andrew Bretton '14

MISSION STATEMENT

Bishop Verot Catholic High School, building on 50 years of tradition and excellence in Catholic education, is a community of faith and learning dedicated to service and centered on Christ. An educational ministry of the Diocese of Venice, Florida, Bishop Verot serves students from Southwest Florida as well as international students in a co-educational college preparatory environment. Bishop Verot provides students with opportunities for lifelong learning and leadership. Teaching skills for college and values for life...

CONTACT INFORMATION

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 Chris Scanlan, Director of Communications, at advancement@bvhs.org. PUBLISHED BY

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SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

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LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL BISHOP VEROT’S ALUMNI MAGAZINE

editor

CHRIS SCANLAN chris.scanlan@bvhs.org copy editor

LYNN KNOX lynn.knox@bvhs.org publisher

CONNIE RAMOS-WILLIAMS CONRIC PR & Marketing | Publishing creative director

APRIL BORDEAUX CONRIC PR & Marketing | Publishing account executive

LINDA FIORE Linda@ConricHoldings.com photography

CRAIG HILDERBRAND craig@craigphoto.com sports editor

CHRIS SCANLAN chris.scanlan@bvhs.org principal

JOHN A. CAVELL, JR. john.cavell@bvhs.org director of development

GINA LOMBARDO gina.lombardo@bvhs.org interim athletic director

JAY MICHAEL athleticdirector@bvhs.org alumni director

MIKE GILL ‘68 mike.gill@bvhs.org Black & Gold Magazine is published quarterly; Fall, winter, spring, and summer by Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Inc. in partnership with CONRIC PR & Marketing | Publishing. More than 6,500 copies are provided to its alumni, parents, students, and friends.

John A. Cavell, Jr.INFORMATION ADVERTISING LINDA FIORE • 239.690.9840 Linda@ConricHoldings.com ON THE COVER Faculty members with their seniors in the courtyard photo credit: Stacey

Elmeer

Black & Gold Magazine • 239.274.6780 Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Inc. 5598 Sunrise Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33919

My Fellow Vikings,

In February, it was announced that I would not be returning to Bishop Verot as Principal next school year. I am honored to have been part of this great institution. It has truly been a source of great honor to serve Bishop Verot as principal. When I accepted the position of Principal at Bishop Verot Catholic High School four years ago, Stephanie and I did so with great enthusiasm as we looked forward with excitement to settling in Southwest Florida. Fort Myers and the Viking family welcomed my family with open arms. We were able to establish roots quickly in this wonderful community and we have made many friends along the way. I have acted as a faithful steward of Bishop Verot Catholic High School for four years. During this time, an impeccable record of successes has been achieved. We have worked diligently for these past four years to grow BV into a model institution and believe that we have done so. Successes include: • setting the standard, for instructional technology integration in SW Florida • growing the schools enrollment; last year we had the largest freshman class in nearly a decade • creation of the Mary Q. Eller Scholars Academy • numerous district titles, 9 trips to the Final Four, and 1 state title • recognition as one of the Top 50 Catholic high schools in the country I am proud of our achievements and truly believe I will leave Bishop Verot in better condition fiscally, academically, spiritually, and athletically. I extend my thanks to the Department of Education and the Bishop Verot School Board for presenting me with this tremendous opportunity. I am particularly appreciative of the efforts of Dr. Kathleen Schwartz, former Director of Education, and for her continued support of BVHS. The faculty and staff at Bishop Verot have been the greatest with whom I have ever worked. I truly appreciate the beautiful bond of friendship that we have shared through the past four years. We have worked together to instill in our students a deep appreciation for our mission, and they will carry that with them for a lifetime. The students of Bishop Verot Catholic High School are among the finest. I will always fondly remember their smiles, kindness, generosity, and, most of all, their loving spirit. Watching these children grow into such outstanding young men and women has been a great source of joy for me, and I will continue to keep them in my prayers. The "Viking Family" is an often-used phrase that, unless experienced first-hand, cannot be fully appreciated. Thank you to the outstanding parents, grandparents, and alumni who have assisted us in making Bishop Verot the great institution that it is. You have made my ministry easier in many ways and definitely a lot more enjoyable. I will continue to care for the well-being of the Bishop Verot community over the next few months. Please know that I look forward to witnessing the school's continued growth. Bishop Verot Catholic High School will always remain in my heart. I will think back often on the fond memories of the joys we have shared. Non Excidet, John A. Cavell, Jr. BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

Alumni of the Year Kathryn Kelly, Class of '73

Bishop Verot’s Alumni of the Year, Kathryn Kelly ’73, was a seasoned Architectural Project Manager in Fort Myers with a 20 year career designing commercial buildings, high-rises, and multifamily homes when she decided that she wanted to donate a few turkey dinners to families living in the Harlem Heights neighborhood during the holidays. Harlem Heights is just a mile down the road from where Kelly grew up, but a world apart from the Fort Myers she had come to know. About 2,000 people live in Harlem Heights, where the poverty rate for children is more than twice the county average and family income is 40% below the county average. “I couldn’t sleep in my nice bed with clean sheets, knowing kids were sleeping on mats on a damp concrete floor with rats crawling over them,” Kelly says. Kelly found herself increasingly drawn to find new ways to assist the Harlem Heights community. In May 2000, the Bishop Verot grad left her career behind and started the Heights Foundation. Fast forward to February 2014 and this has been an exciting year for both Kathryn Kelly and The Heights Foundation. In January 2013, Kelly was one of three finalists for The News-Press People of the Year Award, hosted the ribbon cutting for the Foundation's 14,000-square-footcommunity center, has rapidly expanded her services in the community, and is continuing to add to the already existing services. The new building is the pride of the community and will allow The Heights Foundation to consolidate services that were once spread out in the neighborhood. “We had been developing programs before the building was even complete in order to begin implementation right away. Even now, we are rolling out programs for the new building” said Kelly. Shortly after her induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame at Bishop Verot’s Mardi Gras Ball & Auction, we caught

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up with Kelly to talk about her work at the Foundation, the new programs at the Heights Center, and her time at Bishop Verot.

Kathryn, you have made a big impact within Harlem Heights. What was the moment that you decided you were going to help this community? "Well, it all started with a decision to help deliver Thanksgiving turkeys to families within the Heights community about 15 years ago. I was struck by one of the families. The mother invited me into their home after I had returned to drop off some food and clothes. The mother shared her experience and lifestyle and told me how much my help made such a difference. The mother pointed at a garbage bag hanging from the ceiling and told me that they had to put all the food in the garbage bag because the rats would come out at night and eat any food that was left out. I was deeply moved. Here this family and many families like this had to sleep on old, moldy cots on the damp concrete floor. That was the moment I decided to help. How can I sleep in my comfortable bed with clean sheets when there are children right here in my community sleeping on mats with rats crawling on them at night? From then on, I’ve been dedicated to coming alongside families to provide opportunities for them to break the cycle of poverty.” Your dream has come true with the opening of the Heights Center at the Height Foundation, what effect have you seen in the community?

"A Community Center has been the dream of the Harlem Heights residents for many, many years. Now there is a place to gather together as a community for weddings, family reunions, neighborhood festivals, and so much more. As we work to build strong, self-sufficient families, The Heights Center gives us a place to offer afterschool and summer camp programs for at-risk kids, GED and ESOL classes, career-laddering programs for adults, health and wellness support, and arts enrichment. It has become a symbol of hope and a better life for this community. One example of our success has been the GED program. We expected 5 participants to join, but instead we had 30 eager participants thanking us for the opportunity!" How do you feel your time at Bishop Verot prepared you for your role at the Heights Foundation?

"Looking back, I realize how blessed I was to attend Bishop Verot. I didn’t realize it at the time, but my parents sacrificed a lot to send me to Verot. I’m proud to say their sacrifice was not in vain. There are so many aspects of my life today I recognize as something learned during my

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years at Bishop Verot, but I’ll try and boil it down to three guiding principles. The first principle is to recognize the dignity of every person. This has been a core value of The Heights Foundation and a fundamental reason for my work within this community. When working with families, it is vitally important that we see each individual as a unique person with gifts and talents. This community and these people are not just statistics, they are amazing people and only when we treat them as such can they begin to lift themselves out of poverty. The second principle is to strive for excellence. This has always been one of the Bishop Verot community’s trademark values and we’ve adopted that same mindset, especially when it comes to the children. At The Heights Foundation, we push the kids to get better every day, despite their circumstances. They can still be excellent, even if far from perfect, because they can be excellent in their own capacity. An example of this is our afterschool program. Over 67% of children increased their “Poor” or failing grade into a passing grade in their classes. The third principle is to promote the importance of family and community. My vision for the Harlem Heights community is largely based on the Verot community. We want to promote a culture of mutual trust and support. We want to promote a sense of pride in this community. We want to promote accountability. We want to build up and stabilize the family. As always, it is about the individual person. There’s no one size fits all solution, which is why it is so important for the community to answer the needs of its members, like a family. We have seen people slip

through the safety nets and it is up to us and others within this community to put those families back on solid ground. I’ve seen this happen many times within the Bishop Verot family and I’m proud to see those roots taking place right here in Harlem Heights."

Looking at where you are today: an architect for 20 years and the founder/CEO of a local not-for-profit organization with plenty of major decisions along the way, what role has faith played in your life? "I have recognized so many blessings in my life. From the strength and courage I received while starting a non-profit from scratch, to the continued trust that God will continue to bless us with generous donors. I know that, without His grace, this would not have been possible. I have faith that God will provide. Every day brings new challenges, but I know I can count on Him for the extra guidance and support. Faith has played a major role in my life and I’m happy knowing that I’m where I’m supposed to be, making a difference where I can." What do you see as your greatest achievement?

"Several kids from Harlem Heights are now attending college – something that they never would’ve thought they could do. I have realized that while I cannot solve ‘big’ problems such as world hunger, I can make sure at-risk kids in my own community are given a chance to succeed." We couldn’t be more proud and we wish our sincerest congratulations to Alumni of the Year, Kathryn Kelly, for her incredible work in the Harlem Heights community. BV

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Memories of Bishop Verotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Ball

Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

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BISHOP VEROT

Bishop Verot held its second Mardi Gras Ball at the Paragon Flight Hangar at Page Field on Saturday, February 22, 2014. With the addition of the Bishop Verot Auction, this second event was a great success! Big thanks to all who attended and donated their By Xxxx Xxxx time and/or auction items. The evening featured the induction of Kathryn Kelly ‘73 as our 2nd Alumni of the Year. Adam Hall ’94, last year’s alumni of the year did the honors of welcoming Kathryn into this group. The event was hosted by the Krewe of Victor, which included: Event Co-Chair: Caroline Keys Event Co-Chair: Diana Metzger Auction Chair: Kerri Goldsmith ‘86 Krewe Member: Gina Lombardo If you are interested in joining the Krewe of Victor for the Mardi Gras Ball & Auction 2015, please contact Caroline Keys at cangekes@aol.com After last year’s success we felt it was time to bring the auction back to this gala. Our Vikings will be traveling to Sonoma, Park City, Utah and Sun Valley, Idaho. Mike Gill ’68 did not let our bidders down and built three Adirondack chairs and two fully outfitted tool benches. Golf, motorcycle lessons, FGCU sports fan basket, Sanibel Thriller, Spring training tickets and many more exceptional items were successfully bid upon to make this evening a great success for Bishop Verot! BV

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Lunch & Dinner Live Music Nightly 1249 Estero Blvd. 239.563.5505

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SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

Graduating Seniors Circle of Life at Bishop Verot

hen you hear the phrase “Verot Family”, what comes to mind? Is it the community of parents working to support one another? Is it the faculty encouraging the students as they strive for excellence? Maybe it’s how the upperclassmen look after the freshmen as they navigate their way through the great traditions of Verot? Senior Allison Oliva describes the Verot Family as “hearing the crowd chant ‘I believe that we will win’ when your team is losing 6-0 in the girls’ state semifinal. It’s a hug on your very worst ‘bad day’. It is the fellowship of LIVE JESUS and the rivalry of Homecoming Week. The Verot Family is the knowledge that when you fall, your school will back you up (Unless it’s really funny, then we might laugh at first), and when you succeed, they will celebrate your achievements.”It may mean something different to each student and parent that has walked these halls, but for six of our faculty and staff members and thirteen of our alumni, it will carry a different meaning this summer.

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For the six faculty members, not only have they spent a number of years as part of the Verot family, but they will now have the opportunity to each see their child walk across the stage to receive a diploma from the high school they helped grow. This is the first time Verot has graduated as many as six children from faculty members. It is a testament of their dedication to Verot and fierce pride in the mission of the school. Their sacrifice has not gone unnoticed and Bishop Verot is blessed to have these families as part of the community. We also want to recognize our alumni parents who have experienced what Verot has to offer and they believe Bishop Verot provides the best education and best opportunity for their children. We couldn’t ask for a better recommendation. This May, these parents and students can share in a simple fact that they have made their mark on Bishop Verot and have made Verot better. Nothing can change that. These families encompass what it means to be a part of the “Verot Family” and we celebrate these seniors and parents who have represented this school with pride and honor.

Faculty/Staff

Jason Castaldo – Annette Castaldo Jason Castaldo joined the Verot family over eleven years ago. Annette Castaldo was in first grade at the time. “In just a short time, Verot's strengths in community and education became evident, and I began looking forward to Annette's freshman year. We both made it, and now those four years have almost passed. I believe Verot has prepared her well to attend Union University, in Jackson, TN, where she has verbally accepted an offer to attend school and play softball.” Annette is looking forward to playing softball at Union University, but she also looks back at her four years with a smile. “I’ll never forget my time at Verot, being a part of this family, and being a part of the softball team. My favorite memory is going to states my sophomore and junior years and, hopefully, I get to enjoy that experience once more!”

Phil Dorn – Chelsey Dorn

For the last nine years, Phil Dorn has been Bishop Verot’s Athletic Director and Head Football coach. As Athletic Director, Phil managed 21 sports, presiding over multiple State Championships and numerous district titles. While his success in sports is certainly noteworthy, it was his leadership and dedication to Bishop Verot that set him apart. Phil encouraged excellence from everyone he encountered and freely offered his support and guidance to all. Chelsey Dorn benefited from her father’s support by becoming a strong leader in her own right. As Cheer captain and member of the Student Government Association, Chelsey maintains the same positive demeanor and dedication to Bishop Verot as her father. “My dad being so close was special. Over the last four years, he has taught me so much about the importance of family and not just my own. Here at Verot, it’s the bonds and friendship that are formed, the great experience of the LIVE JESUS retreat, and the way we pull together when others are in need. We always support each other through every loss and encourage each other after every achievement.” Chelsey will have the opportunity to share her enthusiasm and drive at Auburn University where she plans to study business administration and finance. Though Chelsey will be attending college out of state, she won’t have to drive very far to see her family as Phil has recently accepted a position at Alabama A&M as Offensive Coordinator for the football program. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors. BISHOP VEROT

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Deanna Breen ~ Andy Engelbrecht ~ Rachel Engelbrecht Deanna Breen, class of ’94 embodies the mission of Bishop Verot each and every day. She graduated from UF with a Masters and Specialist degree in Education in 2001 and has spent the last 13 years at Bishop Verot as a Guidance Counselor and currently the Director of Admissions. Deanna’s passion for excellence and love of Verot makes her an invaluable member of the administrative team and classroom teacher. Her excitement and dedication to the Verot community is present in everything she does. Andy Engelbrecht, also class of ’94 is a golf course superintendent in Fort Myers. He looks back at his time at Verot with fond memories. “Being the second of four siblings to graduate and now being a parent of a student at Verot has been great….I am looking forward to sending my other three children.” Rachel Engelbrecht follows in her parents’ footsteps in her love of Verot. She won’t be found sitting on the sidelines too often. From cheering to track, Rachel found her place in the family. Rachel will be attending UCF to study Nursing.

Matt Herting – Sue Herting – Dakota Herting

The Herting family has been an integral part of Bishop Verot for the past 15 years. Matt Herting has coached the boys’ basketball team during this time, developing the basketball program into one of the region’s finest. Sue Herting teaches history and has become an invaluable member of the Verot community as the SGA moderator. Senior Dakota Herting varsity lettered in football, basketball, and track. He was also a NHS officer, member of the Senior Homecoming Court, and is a senior representative in the Student Government Association. Dakota has accepted his appointment to the US Naval Academy, where he will study Engineering and graduate as an officer in the Navy. Together as a family (Dakota ’14 and Ali ’17), they have dedicated themselves to the mission of Verot. "When I came to Verot 15 years ago, I never dreamed that it would become such a big part of my life. With my kids here, it has become even more special,” says Coach Herting, “I feel like I gain a friend in every kid I teach or coach. Not many people are lucky enough to have a job like mine."

Suzie O’Grady – Devon O’Grady

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Suzie O’Grady graduated from USF in ’96 and has enjoyed the past 18 years being part of the Verot family. She has proudly made her mark at Verot as an AP history teacher, cheerleading coach, Junior Class Moderator, and Dean of Students. Even Devon, who was six weeks old when Suzie first came to Verot, has been doing his part to impact BV, participating in track, football, Chess Club, and NHS. His best Verot memory is LIVE JESUS. “I got to experience something great and build relationships that I can count on for support. The LIVE JESUS retreat is what sets Bishop Verot apart from everyone else.” Devon looks forward to graduating and attending Florida Southern for college where he plans to major in Business Administration.

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Janice Moore - Leslie Green Janice Moore has been taking care of the Bishop Verot family for the past fourteen years. This May, Janice will proudly watch as her grandson, Leslie Green, will walk across the stage to receive his diploma. Leslie looks forward to graduation but for a different reason. “Graduation for me is a rite of passage. Verot has pushed me to succeed, has supported me when I was down, and has taught me to be independent. I want to prove to my teachers, my classmates and myself that I can reach my full potential.” Leslie’s character was on full display this year after suffering through a season ending injury early in his football season. He was on pace to break the school record of total rushing yards. Since then, he has been working hard to get himself back in shape and has been pushing next year’s team to achieve excellence. Leslie has been accepted into several universities but remains undecided for the time being.

Alumni Keith Arnold - Jared Arnold Keith Arnold ’77 spends much of his time traveling between Southwest Florida and Tallahassee where he works as a government consultant, but that doesn’t stop him from supporting Jared and Bishop Verot. Jared, a member of the cross country and track teams, placed 57th out of 189 and ran a personal record of 17:01 at Cross Country states this year! Jared plans on attending Florida State University where he will major in mechanical engineering. “There is something special about being a part of this family…I’m definitely going to miss it.”

Vincent Barraco Sr. – Vincent Barraco Jr. Vincent Barraco Sr. ’79, a proud supporter of Bishop Verot, works in Land Development for the Bonita Bay Group. Vince Barraco Jr. found the support of his peers to be his inspiration: “I love being a part of the Verot Family. We are always supporting each other; anyone who has been to any of our athletic events will know what I mean… It’s this continued support that makes being a part of the Verot family so special.” Vince comes from a long line of Barraco Verot football players. He plans on pursuing a degree in the engineering field and has upheld the football tradition with pride. “Vince is a versatile player and his strong work ethic made his contribution to the team invaluable,” says Coach Lenarick Thomas.

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Jeff Brown – Stephen Brown Jeff Brown ’80 has been a part of the Verot family for over 30 years. Familiar with Bishop Verot’s roots, he proudly supports the school whenever and wherever he can. “My son’s decision to attend BV was the best decision he made. BVHS and the football program helped make my son the man he is today.” Stephen built relationships through the football program but also through LIVE JESUS. “LIVE JESUS was one of the best experiences I had at Verot. I’ve bonded with new people, and it helped me grow out of my comfort zone.” Stephen’s other great experience was his senior season of football. This season, Stephen earned his position as senior leader of the football team, scoring a touchdown in every game of the regular season…a feat that has only been completed one other time in Verot history. This accomplishment made all the more impressive, overcoming multiple injuries to compete his senior season. Stephen will take his leadership skills and talent to FGCU this fall as he looks forward to staying in Southwest Florida.

Mike Clark – Angela Giles Clark – Kenleigh Clark

Mike Clark and Angela Giles Clark both graduated in ’86. Mike was an active Tennis player while Angela was involved in Student Government, NHS and track. They started dating the summer before their senior year prior to Mike going to Clemson and Angela leaving for Florida State University. After college, they made a life together in Fort Myers, so it made sense that Kenleigh would attend Bishop Verot as well! Kenleigh, like her mother before her, participates in NHS and SGA and played volleyball for 3 years. She was the team manager her senior year, after an injury ended her playing. Kenleigh looks forward to following in her father’s footsteps by attending Clemson University next fall.

John DeHaven – Seth DeHaven

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John DeHaven, class of’83, made a name for himself playing baseball for Verot. That passion for the sport must have rubbed off on Seth DeHaven! John, in one of his proudest moments, watched Seth play at the Jet Blue Stadium for State Finals last year. Seth isn’t done with baseball yet! He received a scholarship to play Baseball at Tusculum College and will join fellow Verot grad and childhood friend, Ismael Brito, on the team. While other Verot grads may be nervous about the transition from a community-based high school to a bigger university, Seth is looking forward to keeping the sense of family. “One of the best things at Verot is the sense of community and family. I always know I can count on my teammates and fellow classmates to back me up if I need support and I’m looking forward to building that community at Tusculum.”

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Katherine Galloway Dougherty – Evan Dougherty Baseball and cars are two of America’s quintessential traditions. For Katherine Galloway Dougherty ’86, those traditions have been a significant part of her life. When she’s not working at the dealership, she can be found in the stands watching senior Evan Dougherty play baseball. She may need to reserve a seat at Duke’s Baseball stadium because Evan will be heading to Duke on a baseball scholarship! Evan is excited to begin a new chapter of his life in North Carolina, but he will look back with fond memories. “I’m going to miss being with friends every day. I’ve been lucky to have such great people around me and this is a place I’ll always want to visit.”

Dr. Martin Ebenger – Martin Ebenger Dr. Martin Ebenger ’85 has been a practicing OB/ GYN in Fort Myers since 1996. A supporter of BV for eighteen years, Dr. Ebenger enjoys stopping by Verot to visit with his former teachers, such as Coach Mike Gill. “I wanted my son, Martin, to experience the same family and Catholic atmosphere and still be held to the high academic standard that Bishop Verot offers,” said Dr. Ebenger. Marty Ebenger has been making great memories by participating in Horns and Swords, the Viking spirit club, and playing basketball for 3 years. He has won the Lee County Bar Association Scholarship and has been selected to be a Lead Scholar at UCF. Martin will attend UCF next fall.

Kerri Engelbrecht Goldsmith – John Goldsmith Kerri Engelbrecht Goldsmith ’86, an Advisor Associate at HBKS Wealth Advisors, is about to be the proud parent of 2 Bishop Verot graduates! “My years at Bishop Verot provided a strong foundation for life, and I feel very fortunate that my parents sacrificed to provide such a quality education for me, my brother and two sisters. It's been even more rewarding to have a different perspective as a parent, having watched my daughter (Amber '10) and son (John '14) shape their futures as they experienced the challenging academics, Catholic environment and extracurriculars that enhanced their special interests and skills.” John has enjoyed participating in STEM team competitions this year: “Everyone has a niche at Verot, a way to be a part of the family. For me, it was joining the STEM team that opened the doors at Verot.” John will use his talents for engineering and mechanics while attending the Florida Polytechnic University this fall. BISHOP VEROT

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Chris Ketcham – Megan Ketcham Chris Ketcham, class of '87, proudly owns Mason's Bakery, which he took over from his father. He was invited by Bishop Verot to play varsity soccer and joined the Verot family for his junior and senior years. He is very thrilled to see his daughter, Megan, graduate this coming May. "We sent both Megan and her brother, Andrew('11), to Bishop Verot, knowing that the school would best prepare them for college and reinforce the values they were taught at home." While Megan hasn't made a final decision on what college she's going to attend, she hopes to follow her brother's footsteps by majoring in English at her first choice: Loyola University of New Orleans.

Judith O’Connor King - Matt King Judith O’Connor King ’80 is an inspiring example of Christian service in action and a role model to many within the Bishop Verot community. Judith is a former nurse who continues to use her talents and gifts to help those around her. Matt King has followed his mother’s lead and does his best to reach out to others in service. From tutoring four fellow students in his free time, to leading a LIVE JESUS retreat, to helping the freshmen find their way through school, Matt is always one to offer a helping hand. Matt is looking to stay in Florida for college and has been accepted at USF. Judith and Matt look forward to sharing their gifts with those around them and consider themselves blessed to have been a part of the Verot community.

Jim Suroski – Grant Suroski

Jim Suroski, ’90, a Sales Director in the medical industry, recalls many of the fond memories at Bishop Verot. “My experience at Verot was rich and played a key role in my formation, especially the lessons of Fr. John and Joe Beattie. However, my fondest memories at Verot will likely be from this past year. While my son Grant played varsity football, both my wife (cheerleading coach) and 10 y/o son (varsity ball boy) were on the field proudly supporting the Viking tradition.” Grant participated in football and track and looks forward to studying at Valencia College. Grant’s best experience at Verot involves the community: “Being a part of the football team and LIVE JESUS has shaped who I am. It’s helped me understand the importance of family and community and how it can make all the difference. Verot is a special place to me and always will be. I’ll be sad to leave but I’m looking forward to the next steps.” BV

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Christ the Teacher Matt Herting

In 2005, the "Christ the Teacher Award" was established by former principal Father Chris Beretta, OSFS, to recognize a classroom teacher who demonstrates Christ-like qualities in the pursuit of academic excellence. The student body nominates teachers while the Student Government Association narrows down the nominees and votes on the recipient. This year, we are proud to recognize Coach Matt Herting as the 2014 Christ the Teacher Award winner. Matt has been coaching and teaching at Bishop Verot Catholic High School for the past 15 years. Not only has he striven for success on the basketball court, become the winningest coach in Bishop Verot History, but he has also found success in the classroom. “I feel like I gain a friend in every kid I teach or coach” says Matt. “Not many people are lucky enough to have a job like I do." Matt Herting’s energy on campus is contagious. From composing the Viking Creed to founding “Horns and Swords”, the Viking pep squad, Matt manages to do it all. He can be found at most sporting events, helping out or chatting with students, offering a listening ear, or providing encouragement. His complete dedication to Bishop Verot is recognized by both the community and student body and we are blessed to have Matt as a positive role model for our students. BV BISHOP VEROT

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www.PaveseLaw.com

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL

Back Row: Coach Breadmore, Evan Dougherty, Patrick Banick, Jonah Owenby, Dominick Stefanacci, Zach Chappell, Christopher Alexander, Thaddeus Ward, Coach Nizza Middle Row: Coach Nelson, Andrew Bretton, Seth DeHaven, Jeffrey Passantino, Bobby Brennan, Michael Richey, Anthony Tejeda, Coach Davis, Coach Burson Front Row: Eric Joslin, Christian Hammond, Richie Nizza, David Malt, Daniel Tufariello,Vincent Barraco

David Nelson is in his 3rd year as head coach for the storied Bishop Verot baseball program (53-10). Before landing in the role as head coach, Nelson served as an assistant coach under Tom LoSauro from 2007-2011 and as head coach at Lehigh Senior High during the 2006 season. Nelson has his Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin and was a member of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division III baseball program. Nelson is in his second year teaching at Bishop Verot. David and his wife, Monica, a 1998 Bishop Verot alumna, have a four year old son, Brayden. 2012 and 2013 District 4A-11 Coach of the Year 2012 Florida 4-A Coach of the Year 2012 News-Press Coach of the Year

COACH NELSON

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS BASEBALL SENIORS

VINCENT BARRACO

BOBBY BRENNAN

ANDREW BRETTON

ZACH CHAPPELL

SETH DEHAVEN

EVAN DOUGHERTY

CHRISTIAN HAMMOND

ERIC JOSLIN

JONAH OWENBY

JEFFREY PASSANTINO

DOMINICK STEFANACCI

DANIEL TUFARIELLO

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS VARSITY AND JV COACHES

COACH BREADMORE ASSISTANT COACH

COACH DAVIS

COACH NIZZA

COACH CHAPPELL

COACH O'CONNELL

ASSISTANT COACH

JV COACH

COACH BURSON ASSISTANT COACH

JV COACH

SPRING 2014 BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL SCHEDULE DATE 02/04/2014 02/04/2014 02/04/2014 02/06/2014 02/06/2014 02/11/2014 02/14/2014 02/18/2014 02/25/2014 02/28/2014 03/04/2014 03/06/2014 03/10/2014 03/11/2014 03/12/2014

GAME Diamond Classic • Ida S. Baker Diamond Classic Diamond Classic • Mariner at Barron G. Collier North Port Gateway Charter at LaBelle at IMG Academy Dunbar Cape Coral at Charlotte at Oasis at Estero

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

TIME 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM

DATE 03/17/2014 03/18/2014 04/03/2014 04/04/2014 04/05/2014 04/07/2014 04/10/2014 04/12/2014 04/15/2014 04/17/2014 04/22/2014 04/23/2014 04/23/2014 04/25/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME at Fort Myers Eagle's View Academy Perfect Game Tournament Perfect Game Tournament Perfect Game Tournament Riverdale Canterbury at Estero Aquinas Institute at Gulf Coast District Tournament District Tournament District Tournament District Tournament

TIME 7:00 PM 7:00 PM TBA TBA TBA 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS JUNIOR VARSITY BASEBALL

Back Row: Bryce Glasgow, Daulton LaGrave, Devyn White, Christian Menendez, Austin Peck, Cooper Swanson Middle Row: Coach Chappell, Michael Morris, Antonio Francisco, Trevor Cramer, Tyler Goguen, Cory Castellano, Coach Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Front Row: Michael Lemmerman, Charlie Houghton, Damian Bishop. Michael Green, Alex Irwin

SPRING 2014 BOYS JV BASEBALL SCHEDULE DATE 02/11/2014 02/14/2014 02/18/2014 02/19/2014 02/25/2014 02/27/2014 03/03/2014 03/06/2014 03/10/2014 03/11/2014

GAME at Barron G. Collier at North Port Gateway Charter at Charlotte at LaBelle South Fort Myers at IMG Academy Cape Coral Charlotte at Oasis

TIME 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM

DATE 03/12/2014 03/14/2014 03/17/2014 03/21/2014 03/25/2014 04/02/2014 04/07/2014 04/08/2014 04/10/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME at Estero Evangelical Christian at Fort Myers IMG Academy at South Fort Myers at The Out-of-Door Academy Riverdale Naples at Ida S. Baker

TIME 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS VARSITY SOFTBALL

Back Row: Coach Hendrix, Jessica Kramer, Colleen Brennan, Erin Kyle, Jessy McLean, Jennie Boisvert, Coach Takais, Coach Plaza Front Row: Chandler Smith, Gillian Takais, Antonia Rich, Krista Sciulla, Kassidy Stawicki, Annette Castaldo

Coach Rick Hendrix is in his 7th season as head coach of the Lady Vikings Softball team. In his six years, Hendrix has amassed a 105 - 45 record with three district championships and two regional championships that brought the girls to two State Final Four appearances. Outside of Bishop Verot softball, Rick has 12 years of experience coaching softball at various travel and recreational programs. Rick has two children - Ricky, 30, and Jordan, a 2010 Bishop Verot alumna.

COACH HENDRIX HEAD COACH

COACH PLAZA ASSISTANT COACH

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

COACH TAKAIS ASSISTANT COACH

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS SOFTBALL SENIORS & COACHES

COLLEEN BRENNAN

ANNETTE CASTALDO

CHANDLER SMITH

JESSICA KRAMER

KASSIDY STAWICKI

SPRING 2014 GIRLS VARSITY SOFTBALL SCHEDULE DATE 02/04/2014 02/04/2014 02/04/2014 02/06/2014 02/06/2014 02/11/2014 02/14/2014 02/18/2014 02/25/2014 02/28/2014 03/04/2014 03/06/2014 03/10/2014 03/11/2014 03/12/2014

TIME 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM

DATE 03/17/2014 03/18/2014 04/03/2014 04/04/2014 04/05/2014 04/07/2014 04/10/2014 04/12/2014 04/15/2014 04/17/2014 04/22/2014 04/23/2014 04/23/2014 04/25/2014

BISHOP VEROT

TIME 7:00 PM 7:00 PM TBA TBA TBA 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS JUNIOR VARSITY SOFTBALL

Back Row: Coach Takais, Amanda Higgins, Emma Heald, Julia Flynn, Gianna Gagliardi, Jamie DeCarlo, Lauren Haag, Coach Hendrix Front Row: Jenna Torres, Brianna Marinelli, Gabriella Duenas, Julia Signorelli, Deanne Goodlunis

SPRING 2014 GIRLS JV SOFTBALL SCHEDULE DATE 02/07/2014 02/11/2014 02/13/2014 02/14/2014 02/19/2014 02/19/2014 02/25/2014 02/26/2014 02/28/2014

GAME Gulf Coast Naples Fort Myers at Cape Coral Riverdale Riverdale at LaBelle Clewiston at American Heritage School of Boca/Delray

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

TIME 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 4:00 PM

DATE 03/06/2014 03/07/2014 03/11/2014 03/13/2014 03/18/2014 03/24/2014 03/27/2014 03/28/2014 04/01/2014 04/02/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME Cape Coral at Barron G. Collier at Oasis North Fort Myers at Naples at Clewiston at Fort Myers Lely at Gulf Coast at Riverdale

TIME 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 4:30 PM

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS LACROSSE TEAM

Back Row (4):Nick Powell, Ben Stobaugh, Jake Bowlin, Richard Maribona, Greg Moyer, Nick Vinci, William McMahon, Peter Swafford, Zack Liberto Third Row(3): Xavier Kelly, Bryce Haytac, Jaryd Brady, Kyle Leddy, Jaxon Grant, Tagg Toscano, Robert Meyers, Griffin Reitz, Olin Peck Second Row(2): Coach Suarez, CJ Trunkett, Anthony Cecere, Morgan Armitage, Bryce Bachman, Connor Linden, Griffin DeCarli, Alec Suarez, Luke Lanman, Coach McMahon Front Row (1): Scott Duffy, Kevin Leddy, Spencer Nowell, Zane Smith, Conor Crep, Joe Cerniglia, River Brown, Kyle McKenna, Coach Neese

SPRING 2014 BOYS LACROSSE SENIORS

RIVER BROWN

KEVIN LEDDY

PAUL NEIHAUS

ZANE SMITH

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS LACROSSE COACHES Coach Gary Neese is currently in his first year as head coach of the Boys Lacrosse team. Gary Neese began playing Lacrosse at an early age in Irondequoit, NY, on Lake Ontario in Western New York. Neese began playing competitive lacrosse in the 5th grade and played University of Delawareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division I Lacrosse team. Transferring after his freshman year, Neese continued his lacrosse at State University of New York (SUNY) Brockport and, in his junior season, was 3rd in scoring in Division III. Following college, Neese took an assistant coaching position at the University of Albany. The following year, Neese pursued a master's degree in Exercise Physiology at Ithaca College in Upstate NY, where he served as a graduate assistant coach. Neese moved to Fort Myers in 1999 and volunteered to help the Bishop Verot Lacrosse team in 2008. Since then, he has been a vital part of the boys lacrosse program.

COACH SUAREZ

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

HEAD COACH

COACH M C MAHON

ASSISTANT COACH

COACH NEESE

JV/ASSISTANT COACH

BISHOP VEROT

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS LACROSSE SCHEDULE SPRING 2014 BOYS VARSITY LACROSSE SCHEDULE DATE 02/15/2014 02/15/2014 02/15/2014 02/19/2014 02/25/2014 02/28/2014 03/04/2014 03/07/2014 03/13/2014 03/17/2014 03/18/2014

GAME at Pre-Season Classic • at Barron G. Collier • at Golden Gate Cardinal Mooney Riverdale at Estero at Cypress Lake Fort Myers Canterbury Sarasota Military at Riverdale

TIME 11:30 AM 11:30 AM 1:30 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM

DATE 03/20/2014 03/25/2014 03/27/2014 03/28/2014 04/01/2014 04/04/2014 04/08/2014 04/11/2014 04/15/2014 04/17/2014

GAME at Naples at Fort Myers Cypress Lake South Fork Estero at Canterbury at Cardinal Mooney at Gulf Coast at District Tournament at District Tournament

TIME 6:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM TBA TBA

SPRING 2014 BOYS JV LACROSSE SCHEDULE DATE 03/04/2014 03/06/2014 03/14/2014 03/17/2014 03/20/2014

GAME at Barron G. Collier Gulf Coast Naples Sarasota Military at Naples

TIME 6:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM

DATE 03/28/2014 03/31/2014 04/08/2014 04/11/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME South Fork Sarasota Military at Sarasota Military at Gulf Coast

TIME 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS LACROSSE TEAM

Back Row: Coach Mackenzie Crawford, Siobhan Brennan, Megan Mathis, Brooke Palmer, Erika Maribona, Kinzie Frey, Mirella Hurst, Christina Moyer Middle Row: Jennify Krutky, Lauren Lockard, Hanna Flaherty, Serena Cecere, Olivia Horton, Natassia Tuhovak Front Row: Lauren Puleo, Jenna Carbone, Rebecca Abernethy, Alyssa Edwards, Kelly Reynolds, Rachel Walsh, Sara Hannon

Mackenzie Crawford is currently in her first season as head coach for the Bishop Verot Girls Lacrosse team. She grew up in Central New York and played Division I Lacrosse in the MAAC conference for Le Moyne College. Mackenzie previously worked for the NHL’s Clumbus Blue Jackets and most recently for the NBA’s Philadelphia 76’s.

COACH CRAWFORD HEAD COACH

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS LACROSSE SENIORS

REBECCA ABERNETHY

SERENA CECERE

ALYSSA EDWARDS

HANNA FLAHERTY

ERIKA MARIBONA

CHRISTINA MOYER

KELLY REYNOLDS

RACHEL WALSH

SPRING 2014 GIRLS LACROSSE SCHEDULE DATE 02/19/2014 02/27/2014 03/04/2014 03/07/2014 03/11/2014 03/14/2014 03/17/2014 03/19/2014

GAME at Cardinal Mooney Estero at Cypress Lake Fort Myers Cape Coral Canterbury at Cardinal Mooney Comm. School of Naples

TIME 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

DATE 03/24/2014 03/25/2014 03/27/2014 04/03/2014 04/04/2014 04/08/2014 04/10/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME Naples Riverdale at Cape Coral at Riverdale at Canterbury Golden Gate at Estero

TIME 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS TENNIS TEAM

Back Row: Mark Singer, Eric Poland, Ryan Cooper, Justin Ecelbarger, Thomas Kearns Middle Row: Alex Simon, Michael Lee, Matt Palmon, Christopher Lee, Brady Castellano, Coach Mark Latell Front Row: Gustavo Roman, Jacob Williams, Alex Mantz, Nick Lambros

Mark Latell is beginning his 3rd year as the Varsity Boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tennis coach. Last year the team won the District Title, the Regional Championship and placed 5th at the State play-offs. Mark is a 1983 Verot alumni with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Georgia Tech. Mark moved back to his hometown of Fort Myers four years ago and is now teaching math at Verot. Mark and his wife Deanna, also a Verot alumni, have five children, Danielle, Anna, David, Matthew and Andrew.

COACH LATELL HEAD COACH

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 GIRLS TENNIS TEAM

Back Row: Tara Cardle, Samantha Webb-Martin, Madison Pergakis, Jennifer Bertrand, Gianna Drayer, Jennifer Dickey Front Row: Nicolette Cervone, Maiya Madden, Alena Hernandez, Jamileth Smith-Cedeno, Alessandra Ausset, Coach Mary Gibson

Mary Gibson is entering her seventh season as the Varsity Girls Tennis coach. During the past seven years, the Vikings have won four district titles, 2009, 2010, 2011, and again last year. The team has repeated as Regional Champions, allowing for back to back State appearances in 2009 and 2010. Gibson has been named News-Press Coach of the year two times during her tenure (2010, 2011). In 2012, she was asked by the Florida High School Tennis Coaches Association to coach the Inaugural State of Florida High School AllStar team for Region 7. Gibson teamed with Naples High coach Tony Kamens and brought the first All Star title to our area. Mary has been married to husband, Gil, for 24 years and has three sons, all of whom are Vikings - Zakary ‘09, Gunnar ‘12 and Cooper ‘16.

COACH GIBSON HEAD COACH

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 TENNIS SENIORS

ALENA HERNANDEZ

TARA CARDLE

MAIYA MADDEN

JAMILETH SMITH-CEDENO

GUSTAVO ROMAN

SPRING 2014 BOYS TENNIS SCHEDULE DATE 02/04/2014 02/06/2014 02/11/2014 02/18/2014 02/20/2014 02/21/2014 02/25/2014 02/27/2014

GAME at Lely at Lemon Bay Venice at Naples Golden Gate at Estero Gateway Charter LaBelle

TIME 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM

DATE 03/04/2014 03/06/2014 03/10/2014 03/12/2014 03/19/2014 03/25/2014 03/28/2014

GAME Canterbury at Fort Myers at Comm. School of Naples at Cypress Lake Naples at Venice at Ponte Vedra

TIME 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM

SPRING 2014 GIRLS TENNIS SCHEDULE DATE 02/04/2014 02/05/2014 02/11/2014 02/13/2014 02/18/2014 02/21/2014 02/25/2014

GAME Lely Lemon Bay Venice at Golden Gate Naples at Estero at Gateway Charter

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

TIME 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM

DATE 03/24/2014 03/25/2014 03/27/2014 04/03/2014 04/04/2014 04/08/2014 04/10/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME at LaBelle Fort Myers Comm. School of Naples at Cypress Lake at Naples at Venice at Ponte Vedra

TIME 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 4:30 PM

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK TEAM

Back Row (5): Joe Glowacki, Nick Liccini, Michael Barrett, Matt Thompson, Andrea Pendergrass, Emily Slater, Samantha Dombkowski, Anthony Bonacolta, Johnny Janiak, Ben Quimby, John Snow Fourth Row (4): James Glowacki, Rus Jumalon, Grant Suroski,Yan Gatskevich, Scott Gislason, Flora Pierre, Katie Sullivan, Allison Oliva, Anna Hart, Hannah Arcentales,Tommy Hoolihan, Matt Streater, John Martin Third Row (3): Head Coach Lenarick Thomas, Devon O’Grady, Chris Kelton, Lauren Proce, Olivia Woolam, Abbygail Nave, Gina Liccini, Chelsey Dorn, Lorenz Thomas, Anthony Moore, Joe Rossi,Tommy Arcentales, Coach Kevin Jordan Second Row (2): Coach Trace Waddell, Nick Rieske, Dakota Herting, Haley Cerretani, Sam Kane, Reilly McAloose, Courtney Wyatt, Madison Brod, Krista Zelfine, Jared Arnold, Evan Williams, Rachel Engelbrecht, Kelsi Snow, Coach Ciara Ward Front Row (1): Kerry Lambert, Alec Turgeon, Cooper Gibson,Tyler Marshall, Matt Signorelli, Alex Avery, Noah Biel, Charlie Mitchell, Andrew Krutky, Zach Cloutier, Michael Arias

Coach Lenarick Thomas is in his tenth season as head coach of Bishop Verot’s track program. Thomas is a 1992 graduate of Bishop Verot and attributes most of his coaching successes to the late Fathers John and Joe Beattie, OSFS. They were his coaches when he was a student here, and he was an Assistant Coach under their tutelage. After graduating from high school, Coach Thomas played football at the collegiate level at both Virginia Tech and the University of West Alabama.

COACH THOMAS HEAD COACH

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK TEAM SPRING 2014 BOYS VARSITY TRACK SCHEDULE DATE 02/14/2014 02/21/2014 02/28/2014 03/04/2014 03/07/2014 03/12/2014

GAME at Lemon Bay Invitational at North Port Relays at RAM Invite at Clewiston Invitational at Pre-Districts Bishop Verot Invite

TIME 4:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM

DATE 03/13/2014 03/20/2014 03/27/2014 03/28/2014 04/09/2014 04/10/2014

GAME at 2nd Home Meet at Bishop Verot@Clewiston at North Port Invite at LaBelle Invite Bishop Verot Pole Vault at District Championship

TIME 3:15 PM 4:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 10:00 AM

SPRING 2014 GIRLS VARSITY TRACK SCHEDULE DATE 02/07/2014 02/14/2014 02/21/2014 02/28/2014 02/28/2014 03/04/2014 03/07/2014

GAME at Pre-District at Lemon Bay Invitational at North Port Relays at RAM Invite at RAM Invite at Clewiston Invitational at Pre-Districts

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

TIME 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 3:30 PM

DATE 03/12/2014 03/13/2014 03/20/2014 03/27/2014 03/28/2014 04/09/2014 04/10/2014

BISHOP VEROT

GAME Bishop Verot Invite at 2nd Home Meet at Bishop Verot@Clewiston at North Port Invite at LaBelle Invite Bishop Verot Pole Vault at District Championship

TIME 3:30 PM 3:10 PM 4:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 10:00 AM

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 TRACK SENIORS

JARED ARNOLD

MADISON BROD

CHELSEY DORN

RACHEL ENGELBRECHT

ROODLY FLEURANTIN

YAN GATSKEVICH

SCOTT GISLASON

JAMES GLOWACKI

JOE GLOWACKI

LESLIE GREEN

DAKOTA HERTING

GINA LICCINI

DEVON O'GRADY

ALLISON OLIVA

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

BASEBALL SOFTBALL BOYS LACROSSE GIRLS LACROSSE BOYS TENNIS GIRLS TENNIS TRACK

SPRING 2014 TRACK SENIORS

JOHN SNOW

KATIE SULLIVAN

GRANT SUROSKI

EVAN WILLIAMS

COURTNEY WYATT

KRISTA ZELFINE

COACH MCINTOSH ASSISTANT COACH

COACH BURBACH ASSISTANT COACH

COACH JORDAN ASSISTANT COACH

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

COACH WADDELL ASSISTANT COACH

COACH WARD

BISHOP VEROT

ASSISTANT COACH

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

Bishop Verot's STEM Team is Back-to-back Champions Bishop Verot’s STEM team is back-to-back champion in the Algenol Solar Boat Race! Algenol has spent the last 4 years creating a multi-faceted program that promotes the development of skills in problems solving, discovery, and exploratory learning.The company spearheaded the annual series of innovative challenges where local area students compete along with Algenol scientists and engineers in STEM related projects in an effort to encourage students to work towards careers in STEM fields. Special thanks to moderators Kurt Prey and Mike Skocik for guiding the team to victory!

Model UN Conference in Boston Bishop Verot's MUN team participated in Boston University’s Model UN Conference! Over 1,400 delegates (students) from around the world took part in one of the nation’s largest Model UN Conferences. Also, great job to Sophomore Ben Allen for being awarded a verbal commendation for his argumentative skills while competing against 150 other students! Way to go Ben! Special thanks to moderator, Lynn Knox and chaperones, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Stejskal for a great trip! While in Boston, the Model UN team was treated to a dinner with some of our BV Alumni attending college in New England- Katie Avery, Patience Stevens, and Juliann Gavin.

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

Edison Festival of Light Parade Bishop Verot students once again represented the school with pride and passion at the Edison Festival of Light Parade! Our fierce Viking float, along with an impressive display of school spirit from the students, brightened everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evening on Saturday, February 15th. A special thank you to Dr. Aymee Martinez, Mrs. Lisa Boron, and Mrs. Patty Magnant for all your help organizing and building the float. We will be sure to return next year en masse for another chance to dazzle the crowds!

Bishop Verot students make history and memories at LEAD conference in Washington, DC Earlier this year, ten Bishop Verot Seniors landed in Washington, DC, to participate in the LEAD 2014 Conference, hosted by the NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals). The conference provides opportunities for students from Honor Societies and Student Governments to learn about and facilitate leadership and team building. Coupled with the various programs offered, students were given the opportunity of competing in an inaugural academic challenge. Over 112 schools from around the globe participated, with Bishop Verot fielding two teams of five students each. The competition was fearless, yet the Vikings landed both teams in the final four. In the end, one of those teams won first place, an accomplishment of which to be extremely proud. Winning a competition of this caliber is a testament to the dedication of both students and teachers at Bishop Verot Catholic High School. A special thanks to moderator Mary Dakin and Mary Kistel for giving their students memories to last a lifetime.

BISHOP VEROT

SPRING 2014 | BLACK & GOLD

Bishop Verot student accepts appointment to U.S Naval Academy Bishop Verot Catholic High School is pleased to announce senior Dakota Herting has officially accepted his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. In accepting his appointment, Dakota has turned down offers from prestigious universities from around the country. Also, the U.S Naval Academy receives almost 20,000 applicants and offers appointments to less than 1,500 of those applicants. This is a great accomplishment! Way to go Kody!

Bishop Verot student signs with Stetson University Katie Sullivan officially signed with the Stetson University Hatters to play Division I soccer this fall! Katie had a big impact while at Bishop Verot, helping lead her team to the State Final Four. Congratulations Katie! We will be cheering you on from the sidelines!

Mock Trial Congratulations to the Bishop Verot Mock Trial Team that competed in the annual Lee County Mock Trial Competition! The team consisted of Allison Oliva, Yan Gatskevich, Paul Niehaus, Devon Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Grady, Kerry Waldron, Ben Quimby, and Olivia Woolam. Senior Allison Oliva repeated for the second year as the competitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Valuable Defense Attorney , and was also 1 of 2 students to be named the Most Valuable Prosecuting Attorney! Also, a special thank you to our Mock Trial Team coaches Mrs. Kristen Woolam of Liberty Mutual and Mr. Ken Kemp of Patrone & Kemp Law Firm, and Mock Trial Moderator, Mr. Greg Jones. Their help has been extremely valuable and is greatly appreciated!

BLACK & GOLD | SPRING 2014

BISHOP VEROT

LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

My Fellow Vikings. While attending the National Leadership Conference for Catholic Schools recently in Naples, I was struck by all the wonderful things that make Bishop Verot's culture so unique. The presenters shared best practices and suggestions for success and almost immediately it became clear that our students, faculty/ staff, parents and alumni are the most dedicated and finest examples of Christian Stewardship, "one who receives God's gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them in justice and love with others and returns them with increase to the Lord." Our students are eager to help each other and the greater community around them. Our faculty/staff are not only the finest educators; they make sacrifices everyday to further our students and Bishop Verot. Our parents also make significant sacrifices to provide the best possible education in an environment centered on Christ. And our alumni, many of which fall into the faculty/staff and parent categories, continue to feel compelled to help further the mission of Bishop Verot. My primary responsibility as the Director of Development is to assist the school in raising the much needed funds to continue our mission. To make sure this happens we must be the best Christian stewards we can be. I am proud to say this is modeled each and every day at Bishop Verot. We have been given a unique opportunity to raise $100,000.00. Mrs. Mary Q. Eller has committed up to $50,000.00 by matching donations made to the school for technology upgrades and improvements. Please help Bishop Verot secure the full $50,000.00 from Mrs. Eller by making a donation with the envelope provided in this issue of our magazine. Thank you for your constant support through your prayers and your gifts (talent and treasure); we will all move Bishop Verot forward together. Sincerely,

Gina Lombardo Director of Development

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It is our pleasure to welcome our three 2014 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees, Nancy Eskay, Tom Losauro, George Kiesel. The Bishop Verot Hall of Fame Committee officially inducted Nancy Eskay â&#x20AC;&#x2122;97, Tom Losauro â&#x20AC;&#x2122;79, and the late George Kiesel on April 9th, all three were recognized and celebrated for contributions to Bishop Verot athletics. We consider ourselves blessed to have had the opportunity to enjoy their company during their time with Verot, especially the late George Kiesel. Also in attendance were valued alumni, the senior athletes and their families, friends of Bishop Verot, and guests of the Hall of Fame inductees.

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A Seniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reflection on the Verot family by Andrew Bretton â&#x20AC;&#x2122;14 "The mission of Bishop Verot Catholic High School is to build a community of faith and learning in Salesian tradition, devoted to educating minds and hearts, dedicated to service, and centered on Christ." This statement gives a certain understanding and insight into Bishop Verot, but does not sum up all that Verot is; rather it is just a snapshot of something far greater. I remember back to my freshman year, the first day of classes walking through the halls. This was the first time I experienced the "Verot Family." I noticed everyone was in a great mood, greeting friends after another short summer. Everyone was a part of the same conversation. No one was left on the outside. This experience was indescribable, made only more remarkable now after I realized that this is not a normal high school experience. The fact, that after 4 years you know almost everyone on campus, is an experience that you can't find at many other schools. For the next two years, I attended as many sporting events as I could with my brother. I recall very little about the games, but the one thing I remember was, whether we won or lost, the students would cheer for our teams as they came off the field. We would also all gather and sing the Alma Mater. The meaning of this I never comprehended until my junior year. I realized that no matter the score, we would stand behind all of our brothers and sisters out on the field. There were a number of things that I did not understand or appreciate at first, such as attending Mass once or more a month. I had attended Catholic schools all my life, so going to school Mass was nothing new to me, it was just part of the routine. Things changed after my LIVE JESUS retreat my Junior year. This retreat refocused my spirituality and gave me a deeper relationship and understanding of God. It made me realize that Mass is not just a break from class, but it is a

time to be one with God in the celebration of the Eucharist. Another epiphany moment happened while completing the community service requirement last summer. I was blessed with a service opportunity at a local preschool working with children. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all fun and games (although it was for the children!). However, by the end of my time there, I had learned so much about what it means to sacrifice this time in service to others. I would have missed out on this had Bishop Verot not required community service. It has been experiences like the preschool that have prepared me for leadership roles within Bishop Verot. While at Verot, I have served as SGA Treasurer and Senior Class Vice-President in the Student Government Association and, though these positions can be tough at times, I know the time, effort, and sacrifices I have made will benefit the school and the Verot Family. Bishop Verot is more than just a school; it is a community, and a great one at that. Bishop Verot is a place where people actually care about your well being. This school does not have just some of the best teachers, but some of the best people I have ever met. So many teachers go beyond the requirements to tutor and educate the students. I know from personal experience that if someone has an issue whether it be a student, faculty member, or parent, that there will be someone to meet with you and discuss it. If a family member is sick, the school as a community will offer prayers and help. If someone is in financial trouble, the school will do what it can to help. As I said before, this place is special and there is nowhere else quite like it. We are more than our test scores, rankings, graduation rates, or sports titles, we are a family. This family has taught me what it means to be a responsible individual, what spirituality really is, the gift of community service, and to treat everyone with respect, no matter who it is. When I graduate, it will be a joyous but sad day. I will be starting a new chapter of my life, leaving behind my school family, but I know I will always be a part of the community and will always have a home at Bishop Verot Catholic High School. BV

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Firefighter Brendan Fonock (99), Lieutenant Melissa Ippolito (97), and Engineer Ian Milliken (02) You can always trust the Verot family to have your back and this is especially true for Firefighters and Verot Alumni Brendan Fornock ’99, Lieutenant Melissa Ippolito ’97, and Engineer Ian Milliken ’02 as they proudly serve in Cape Coral Fire Department’s Ladder 1 together! This is a heartwarming reminder that there are Verot graduates ready and willing to support their fellow Vikings. To Brendan, Melissa, Ian and all other service members: Keep up the great work! You are always in our thoughts and prayers!

Jesse Zavada '09 Jesse Zavada has been playing the piano for over fifteen years and graduated from Bishop Verot in 2009. He was accepted into Florida State University’s College of Music in Tallahassee, Florida and, after completing two years, he was accepted into the Commercial Music program. Throughout his four years in school, he studied music theory, ear training, audio recording and engineering. In July 2011, after taking lessons with Norma Mastrogiacomo, Joshua Pifer and David Kalhous, he was chosen to perform at the Orfeo Music Festival in Vipiteno, Italy. In 2012, Jesse began playing piano for the Co-Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Tallahassee, performing with the Florida State University’s Men’s Collegiate Singers, and becoming an active member in the Music & Entertainment Industry Student Association and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity. Jesse graduated from Florida State University in May 2013 with his Bachelor of Arts in Commercial Music and a Minor in Business. He is also a member of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. After graduating, he moved to New York City and began interning at Electric Lady Studios. Jesse currently works at Apple Inc. in Grand Central Station and has been selected to accompany his first musical, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, in Brooklyn, New York. He hopes to continue following his dream of being a professional musician and playing the piano.

Lauren Durling '09 Lauren Durling ’09 was recently accepted in New York University’s Institute of Fine Arts where she will pursue a Master’s in Art History! Lauren expects to graduate in 2017 and is looking forward to her new life in New York. Congratulations Lauren and we wish you success in your new endeavor!

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Kevin Reynolds '09 Congrats to Kevin Reynolds ’09 and Bri Sinnery! They brought Raelynn Christine Reynolds into the world on August 1, 2013! Raelynn was born healthy and happy at 7 pounds 13 ounces and 19 7/8 inches long. They currently reside in Franklin, Massachusetts, and Kevin is attending University of Hartford in the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program and is expected to graduate in 2016.

Katie Mosher '10 2010 Alumni, Katie Mosher, redshirt junior libero for the Florida State Indoor Volleyball team was named Feb. 20th to the All ACC Academic Team. This is a double honor for Mosher as she was named to the All ACC team back in Dec 2013 for her significant play on the court for the Seminoles. The FSU Indoor team finished the 2013 season AVCA ranked #11 in the country. Katie is also playing dual sports for the Seminoles this year as she is a starter on the FSU Sand Volleyball team for this 2014 season. She recently returned from California over FSU’s spring break where the sand volleyball team competed against top California teams, LBSU,UCLA,USC and LMU. The FSU Sand team is currently AVCA ranked #3 in the country.

Michael Knox Congratulations to Michael Knox ’01, who married Fort Myers High School graduate, Arlyn Stokes Knox on January 18, 2014. Michael and Arlyn were high school sweethearts who reconnected 12 years after graduating. Michael earned his BA from University of Florida and MBA from Florida Gulf Coast University. We are all proud of Michael, son of Bishop Verot English teacher, Lynn Knox! Michael currently lives in Fort Myers and works hard as president of his company Knox Business Solutions. We are all very happy for Michael and wish him the very best!

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Todd Jurkowski '89 Todd Jurkowski (1989) has been sworn in to the U.S. Foreign Service as a Diplomat.Working for the Department of State, Todd’s first assignment will be at the U.S. Consulate in São Paulo, Brazil. As a Public Diplomacy Officer, his main focus will be cross-cultural relations and communications to build public awareness and promote U.S. interests and policies abroad. After graduating from Bishop Verot, Todd attended Florida State University, where he graduated with a double major in Journalism and Political Science. He worked as a News Anchor/Reporter for 13 years, including time at NBC2/ABC7 in Fort Myers, and won the famed Emmy for his feature “Bracelet Reunion” - a story about a Cape Coral woman and her rediscovered connection to her husband lost in WW2. His most recent profession was with the House of Representatives as a Press Secretary and Communications Director for a high-profile freshman member of Congress.Todd currently resides in Washington D.C and will relocate to Brazil with his wife Jessica and daughter Alexa in October.

2014 ALUMNI CALENDAR July 12

Class Reunion

Class of 1994 20 Year Reunion Tween Water Inn Island Resort, Captiva Island

Class of 1975 Reunion Date and Time TBD Please contact Joe O'Connor '75 for more information or to help with the reunion. jwoconnor@yahoo.com

Contact Deanna Breen at Deanna.breen@bvhs.org for more information

What saves a man is to take a step.

Then another step. -C.S. Lewis

May the journey of your life be built on the foundation of Catholic Education. We proudly support the mission & students of Bishop Verot High School.

BLESSED POPE JOHN XXIII 46

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BISHOP VEROT

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