JOURNALISTIC AWARDS
Journalism students have earned a variety of honors in recent weeks on the state and national levels.
From an overall standpoint, CSPA announced in March that the North Star and the FHNtoday.com/ FHNgameday.com teams earned a Gold Crown for their work this past year. It’s the 13th straight Gold Crown Award earned by the staffs.
From an individual standpoint, students were honored through the Missouri Interscholastic Journalism Association, NATAS Mid-America Emmys, Quill and Scroll, National Federation of Press Women, and most recently at the spring national high school journalism convention that took place two weeks ago in Seattle.
You can see a full listing of staff and student honors at the QR code listed here.
RETIREES REFLECT ON CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
There are seven retirees this year at North; here’s an overview of their thoughts on teaching here, what they will miss most and what they are looking forward to once retired (Content by Naomi VanDyne and Photos by Hannah Martin, Ayah Ramadan, Layla Williams and Naomi VanDyne)
MIKE JANES
The long-standing Activities Director will be retiring after 29 years, 20 of those being at FHN. He’s had to deal with many changes in the last few years with the new school being constructed, but is glad to have seen it through.
THE COUNTDOWN TO FINALS BEGINS
by Ashlyn Thies athies277@g.fhsdschools.org
The last day of school and the dates of finals have changed frequently throughout the school year because of snow days and the new state law that was enacted.
“The state law said that you guys have to be here for a certain amount of hours for it to count as a full school year, and we were just short of that number of hours with our current snow schedule,” Associate Principal Erin Steep said.
“That had to change, and they had to be creative in adding some half days that count as school days.”
“I like to see kids come when we get them as freshmen, and then see their athletic ability and all their talents grow through those four years,” Janes said. “It’s been a real blessing because you get to hopefully have an impact on students and staff, and hopefully I’m leaving it in a better place than when I got it.”
BECKY JUST
The teacher of a variety of foods classes, Just has been at North for 26 years. Once retired, she plans on working on her dessert shop business as well as taking some downtime.
“[I liked] all the kids I’ve had in my classes, they’ve been fantastic,” Just said. “[I’ll miss] my immediate colleagues that I work with and the energy of the students. They keep you young and a little crazy sometimes. It’s been a roller coaster of excitement.”
DENISE MAPLES
Maples has been an art teacher for 28 years at North. She student taught at first, then became a long-term sub and finally got her spot as a teacher.
“North has a lot of special traditions that I think other schools don’t have, which I think is neat, and it just kind of gives us a unique personality,” Maples said. “We’ve always had a unique personality between the other two high schools, and I think we have a really great staff. I’m going to miss having my own little environment in my room… It’s going to be weird to not be Mrs. Maples anymore.”
This isn’t the only thing that has affected the school year; snow days also are considered. While some students like the days off, others question the decisions made.
“I get why they had to do it [but] some of the snow days I wish they would’ve just had school anyway,” sophomore Leo McClure said.
LISA PENTECOST
She has taught in the specialized services department at North for 22 years and 32 total, other places like McCluer High School, Edgewood Children’s Center and Ackerman School.
“I would say [I like] the students first,” Pentecost said. “They’re hardworking and diverse. I’m going to miss helping students figure out how they can be successful and watching them grow, because I love the way students and teachers endure and thrive. My time at North has been rewarding and joyful. I’ve made connections that will always be important. In my head, leaving teaching is a big deal because I’ve been doing it for so long.”
Because of all these changes, the last day of school is currently June 3. Finals start on Thursday, May 29, and go until the end of the school year. The last three days of school, which are Friday, May 30, Monday, June 2, and Tuesday, June 3, will be early release days, with dismissal at 11:25 a.m.
“Those three early release days, you will do two final exams every day with that optional homeroom in the morning,” Steep said.
TONY ROUNGON
Having been at North for 20 of the 21 years in education, Roungon most appreciates the memories he’s made with students in his physics and physical science classes. Once retired, he plans on enjoying traveling, specifically an Alaskan cruise.
“[I’ll miss] interacting with the students and really appreciating when a student either thanks you for something they learned, or a student that graduates comes back and gives you an update on what they’re doing and shares their successes with you,” Roungon said. “That’s always rewarding to hear.”
KENT STOVER
He has been teaching math for 34 years, all of those at FHN. He most appreciates the people at North and the community at the school.
“[I liked] the camaraderie of the staff, and how everybody got along well together,” Stover said. “[I’ll miss] the people, both the students and the teachers. It’s been a fun journey.”
KIM SULZNER
She has taught many theater classes, including Actor’s Studio I and II, Speech, Debate, and English I. She has been at North for 10 years, but has been teaching for 35 years in FHSD schools like Howell High and Hollenbeck. Once retired, Sulzner plans to complete her travels to all 50 states, as well as spend time with her grandson.
“[I liked that] it’s kind of like a sense of family when you get here,” Sulzner said. “There’s cooperation between departments and things like that, a lot of support. [I’ll miss] the students more than anything. It’s gone really fast. I can’t believe it’s already been 10 years.”
(Photo by Canyon Dubis)
Staff and student honors
TOP10
The wait is almost over and summer break is on its way. Summer is the time for students to relax and have fun, but it is also the perfect time to make some money. Getting a job as a teenager can provide great job experience for the future while also improving communication and time management skills. Here are the top 10 summer jobs recommended for high school students (Content by Sam Hall and Photos by Alayna Clement and Jasmine Dong)
Camp Counselor
A camp counselor’s main priority is to supervise children and keep them safe. Summer day camp counselors plan out activities for the campers to do, along with preparing snacks for them. Being a camp counselor is a perfect summer job, especially for high schoolers, because it is a leadership position.
“I like being able to talk with all the kids and I like having something to do over the summer,” sophomore day camp counselor Danielle Westoff said.
Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is a great summer job for high school students, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. Lifeguards need to be capable of keeping people safe, and they need to know how to save someone from drowning.
“You have to be super focused, but if you like to sit in your thoughts, then I totally recommend it,” sophomore lifeguard Arianna Dangi said.
Concession Stand
Concession stands are located at many summer related places such as amusement parks, waterparks and ballparks. This job requires preparing and serving food and beverages along with having good customer service and being able to clean up. This summer job will keep employees busy and out of the sun.
SUMMER JOBS
1 2 3 4 5 7 6 9 8 10 Target Car
Babysitter
Babysitting is a great beginners experience in the workforce. Being a babysitter requires patience, communication and being able to keep the children safe. Communication is key in this job because it comes with a lot of responsibility. Be prepared for emergencies and know the specific schedule the parents want their child to follow.
Chick-Fil-A employees are known for their amazing customer service and for always replying with “my pleasure.” Employees here take orders, cook food and clean up.
“There is a good community there, everyone there is pretty nice, and down to earth, really chill,” junior Chick-Fil-A employee Parker Frankland said.
Sports Instructor
A common way that kids spend their summer is participating in a sport. Becoming a summer sports instructor requires a basic understanding of the sport, teaching skills and event organization. Depending on the intensity of the team, this job is a big responsibility. This is a perfect summer job for students who have a passion for sports or coaching.
Grocery Stores
While working at a grocery store, bagging groceries and retrieving carts are the main tasks for cart attendants. Others who work here stock shelves and help customers. This job will improve social skills with the amount of interaction employees have with customers.
“I have great coworkers, I like my manager and the pay is not bad,” sophomore Schnucks Cart Attendant Johnny Johnson said.
Working at a bakery involves preparing ingredients, baking different treats, decorating cakes and interacting with customers. This is a great job especially for high schoolers over the summer because it isn’t too demanding, and it is a fun experience.
“It’s a really fun environment, we get a lot of interesting customers, and I like all of the girls I work with,” sophomore La Bonne Bouchée employee Farrah Sneed said.
Wash
While working at a car wash, employees clean the cars that enter the car wash and then dry them off. Many high school students can be found working at a car wash because it is a great beginner’s job. “Working here is easy and you make tips,” sophomore Royal Ozarks Car Wash employee Ally Schaffrin said.
At Target, some of the main tasks are assisting customers, working guest service, stocking shelves and operating the cash register. Since Target is a nationally known company, good customer service is extremely important. Working here can teach high schoolers how to have great social skills.
“The environment is really good and it’s really easy,” sophomore Target employee Alexis Hunter said.
SUMMER DAYS LEVELED UP
by Bri Taliaferro
btaliaferro365@g.fhsdschools.org
HOW TO SET UP AN AQUARIUM
by Cheyenne Steed csteed056@g.fhsdschools.org
Fish are one of the nation’s most popular house pets, often found popular for people with space limitations or allergies who still desire an animal friend. One of the most important things a new fish keeper should do when setting up a fish tank is to do plenty of research on the species of fish that is being put in the tank. Food type, tank size, and water quality are very important components when it comes to having a fishy friend.
“I’ve owned a 36-gallon tank and have had multiple fish, ranging from tetras to bettas,” junior Joshua Ramon said. “Fish are really good pets once they get used to you, and their personalities start to come out. It’s not
While it can be hard to find things to do in the summer, video games are great at offering quality entertainment. Games with storytelling aspects, such as Zelda: Breath of the Wild on Switch, offer a feeling of having a goal to achieve. Every day, there is something new to tackle until achieving the final goal: saving Princess Zelda from the evil antagonist, Ganon. As an open-world game, Breath of the Wild has beautiful visuals, exciting monster combat and side quests throughout.
TATE MCRAE DROPS ALBUM
by Haley Beffa hbeffa397@g.fhsdschools.org
Pop singer Tate McRae released her newest album, “So Close to What”, following the announcement of her tour in early November. Only a week into the album’s release, it reached upwards of 137 million streams, reaching 200,000 cumulative album sales in Canada alone. By making the charts so quickly, a lot of attention was immediately put on McRae.
“I have watched her since she started posting things on YouTube,” junior Stefania Gentile said. “And then she started releasing stuff, and I was like, ‘yes!’”
At only 7 years old, McRae began releasing her own original music, uploading it onto video platforms for people to listen to. Her first song, “One Day”, exceeded over 40 million views, which is what jump-started her music career. From making music in her bedroom to moving to a studio only a few years later, McRae has taken the music industry by storm.
“I absolutely love her,” junior Emily Clausner said. “Her music is always good. You can always dance to it, and you can listen to it on repeat.”
For rewinding, Minecraft is the perfect sandbox game. With exciting creatures and a variety of materials, this game of blocks is no doubt unique. Available on mobile, PC and XBox, Minecraft can be enjoyed in survival mode or in creative mode, where the player is free to build and use any materials available in the game.
“It’s relaxing, and you can do anything in it,” freshman Blake Otte said. “They keep adding more stuff to it every year.”
the same as a dog, but fish can be really good pets.”
One of the first things one should do before searching for their new fish is setting up an environment for them that will make them comfortable. Once one finds the recommended size for their fish, they’ll need to cycle the tank with a filter for two weeks. Cycling makes it so the fish adjusts better and has a better chance of living longer. After the tank is cycled, one should decorate it with plants and small hideaways that’ll make it so the fish rest areas and feels safe.
“What I suggest for someone who wants to try out having a tank is don’t overcrowd their tank with decoration and too many fish,” junior Emily Day said. “If you notice your fish acting differently, test the water immediately; it’ll save your tank. Make sure to get the right food designed for your fish, do regular water changes, and include a filter.”
Team and friend-oriented games such as Roblox and Fortnite are a great way to break summer feelings of isolation. With Roblox’s customizable characters and hundreds of games on the gaming platform, there is surely something to enjoy. With mic communication as well, Fortnite is a third person shooter game on Xbox and Playstation where players can build and battle in various formats against other players.
“It’s a fun multiplayer game…you can interact with other people,” sophomore Valentino Sorsby said. “It’s an easier way to make new friends.”
by Addilyn Lee alee452@g.fhsdschools.org
Lilo and Stitch, the well-known story about released in 2002. Many people have watched know about the new live-action. Disney’s new Lilo & Stitch live action will begin to play in theaters on May 23. The new movie even brings back Chris Sanders, who was Stitch’s original voice actor. While some are excited for the movie, others are a little skeptical.
“I don’t think every movie needs a live action,” freshman Shelby VonAllmen said.
Turning an animated movie into a live action is difficult, and with a character like Stitch, CGI is used to make him come to life, while the rest of the characters are played by actors. Many people hope that they don’t leave out their favorite parts of the movie like they have done in previous live actions. The original Lilo & Stitch has many beloved characters, and people want to see them in live-action.
“I feel like they’re going to skip showing everyone else,” freshman Evelyn James Corso said.
THROUGH CONSPIRACIES
by Cheyenne Steed csteed056@g.fhsdschools,org
Conspiracy theories have long existed on the fringes of society, continuing to shape public, and these theories cause debate. Theories can range from faking the moon landing to birds not being real and even as far as aliens.
“Since 6th grade, I’ve thought that birds are secretly government drones,” senior Tyler Durden said. “I think they are drones because they are always in groups, have strange behavior, and no one has ever seen a baby dove.”
Conspiracy theories mainly explain a certain event when another explanation is more likely. Although conspiracy theories spice up our world, they can have consequences, including fueling mistrust and violence.
“I’ve always had a bunch of theories that ranged from the sun being a pebble in the sky, humans being aliens, or the moon not being real, but in the end, I don’t think we will ever know some of those things, and I think the government is hiding some stuff from the world,” junior Amir Abudayeh said.
(Illustration by Cheyenne Steed)
ZELDA: BREATH OF THE WILD
MINECRAFT
ROBLOX
07 (Illustration by Cheyenne Steed)
cdubis608@g.fhsdschools.org
When walking into Mayghen Mugele’s classroom, there is never a day when one does not see her talking to a student or to one of her players. And while they’re talking, Mugele is there, listening with a smile on her face.
“I think she’s a really good teacher,” sophomore Nayana Kartha said. “She motivates me a lot, and I work really hard to do really well in her class because of how great of a teacher she is.”
This is Mugele’s second year as a teacher. Once she finished her degree, she got her current position at North as a Biology and Project Lead the Way teacher in an attempt to provide an positive high school experience that she didn’t get.
“I actually became a teacher because I didn’t love school and I didn’t feel like my teachers helped me love it,” Mugele said. “So, I wanted to be able to help students enjoy being in school and learning. And I just love the subject of science, so that’s why I chose to pass along that science knowledge.”
She first became a part of the district six years ago, when she got a coaching job at Howell for girls JV volleyball. Since joining North, Mugele has become a coach for girls c-team basketball and boys JV volleyball, as well as continuing to coach girls’ volleyball at Howell.
“[Coaching at both schools is] only weird because I see all my students at school, and then I’m facing my students for that sport, and it’s definitely weird,” Mugele said. “My heart wants both sides to win. It is a little weird seeing my kiddos over on the other side, but I think it’s more of a friendly thing. And I think over my coaching years, I’ve learned winning is not everything, and it’s more about learning and growing as a person and a player. So it’s more of a fun competition type of thing.”
Not only is Mugele’s time split between sports and her work, but also her drive home is over an hour long. This is due to the fact that she grew up and still lives in New Baden, a small town in Illinois where, according to Mugele, “everyone knows everyone.”
“I definitely think that [growing up in a small town] kind of shaped who I am, just because I also played sports,” Mugele said. “So, everybody knew I was an athlete, and I feel like I was always trying to be the best version of myself. And with everyone knowing all my business constantly, I wanted them to think the best of me.”
STUDENTS SHARE OPINIONS
“These standarized tests I think are stupid and inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, but we have to take them for college.”
Rayna Aathreya, 11
“It matters mostly for scholarship money and getting into school.”
Christian Portell, 12
HOW
DO YOU STUDY FOR THE ACT & SAT?
“I have some books online and some books that I got from the ACT prep class.”
Jumana Hammad, 11
“I took a semester class here and they provided us with textbooks, so I would study them at home.”
Camryn Portell, 11
“I’m going to use a lot of IXL, and will look up practice ACT [tests] online. I’m also going to use a packet I got.”
Charlie Kennedy, 11
DO ACT AND SAT SCORES MATTER?
With more schools going test-optional, students must decide whether the SAT and ACT are worth the effort
by Zoe Lobato zlobato998@g.fhsdschools.org
The SAT and ACT are notorious tests that have long been stressful for many students filling out their college applications. But as education has evolved and COVID-19 has disrupted testing, many schools have switched to test-optional, raising the question: Do SAT and ACT scores still matter?
The policy of test-optional admissions changes with each university. Some still factor in a student’s score with their final decisions, whether or not it improves or hurts their chances, while others disregard anything that weakens their application.
“The way schools handle test scores varies,” said Sean Bierman, an admissions counselor at St. Louis University. “Some set a general average, but it depends. Some schools automatically consider only the highest score, while others review everything a student submits. Testoptional schools might only use scores if they help the student, but at others, submitting a lower score could still factor into their decision.”
standardized tests don’t always correctly predict student success. Some excel in school but struggle with tests while others can test well despite having lower GPAs.
“Test scores do not predict how well a student will perform in college.”
- Travis Patoc
“Test scores do not predict how well a student will perform in college,” said Travis Patoc, an assistant director of admissions at Maryville University. “In high school, students study everything, compared to college, where you learn about something you are passionate about. Some students excel at standardized testing but struggle in classes, while others perform well in school but don’t test well. In some cases, students with lower GPAs score exceptionally high on standardized tests, helping them qualify for scholarships they wouldn’t have received otherwise.”
While some schools still regard the students’ test scores with the same level of importance as a GPA, they now play a bigger role in scholarship decisions and can greatly impact a student’s package when receiving their acceptance.
If standardized testing no longer influences a student’s acceptance, other factors have the opportunity to step forward, thus putting greater emphasis on other aspects of the student’s academic career.
“Rigorous courses, your resume, letters of recommendation, and essays will all play a part,” FHN college and career counselor Brooke Prestige said. “GPA plays a big role, especially if you are applying for a testoptional, which is a main factor they’re looking at.”
The mindset that standardized tests determine the success of students in college has positively developed. Since high school and college environments are so different,
“These tests can jump up your scholarship package significantly,” Prestige said. “Even bumping your [test] scores up, just a couple of points, could mean the difference between several thousands of dollars.”
The decision to submit ACT and SAT scores now rests with the student, and their view of their capabilities and what they choose to believe is the best path in their college experience.
“Ultimately, most students take these tests for college admissions, but the goal is earning a degree and a career,” Patoc said. “Standardized tests can help maximize a student’s potential, but students need to decide whether taking these tests is worth the stress and effort based on their strengths and college goals.”
(Illustration by Zoe Lobato)
7 BREW AT SUNSET
After months of construction and many delays due to weather, 7 Brew First Capitol opens on March 31. This location is much closer to FHN than the other Cottleville and O’Fallon locations. 7 Brew is a drive through drink stop enjoyed by many in the FHN community. Take a look into the night of their opening (Content by Kylie Ramirez)
A new employee practices taking orders during the hour of free drinks on opening day. Customers line up in their cars as employees come to their window to take their order.
7 Brew holds the grand opening of their new location in Saint Charles, Missouri. After months of delay due to weather inconveniences, the store opened to customers later than expected.
Barista creates a 7 Energy using the franchise’s signature energy drink and flavored syrups. Available to full customization, customers can create their own personal drinks not seen on the menu. The store’s motto is “Cultivating Kindness One Cup at a Time” which was shown through their partnership with a local charity. In tips, $8,000 were raised, all of which were donated.
Ross Douglas, a 7 Brew employee, mixes a coffee for a customer. With the store offering a multitude of drinks including coffees, teas, smoothies and energy drinks, employees are required to learn many recipes.
Steve Jones smiles as he receives his drink order in the drive-thru late Monday afternoon.
Prior to the official opening, the store held scheduled hours serving free drinks as an opportunity to train employees advertised on their windows.
(Illustration By Naomi Vandyne)
AP EXAM SEASON RUSHES IN
by Riley Jensen rjensen810@g.fhsdschools.org
The school year is coming to a close, but the real struggle for some has just begun.
AP students in each of their specialized classes have been preparing all year for that one overhanging test: the AP exam. Even though some students have already taken their exam, it’s not too late for others to cram during their final days of preparation.
“[Students] are going to need to make sure that they focus on reviewing content and then perfecting that knowledge and knowing exactly what’s expected for the skills that they have learned,” AP History teacher Kim Coil said.
AP exams are leagues different from normal finals. Although both tests involve a lot of studying, AP exams focus more on concept application, while most district-mandated finals are centered around memorization.
“AP exams, in my opinion, test more application of knowledge,” AP English teacher Rowan Pugh said. “It isn’t just asking you for regurgitation of random facts. And so, I think that is what can be difficult for kids, because we don’t always apply knowledge to scenarios.”
AP exams are widely considered very difficult tests. This is mostly because the classes themselves hold a lot of content. While remembering numerous facts, students must also learn how to write a variety of free-response questions in a limited amount of time.
“Remembering material from early on in the course is really the hardest,” Coil said. “And, for one thing, they are timed. That’s a big issue. A lot of students have struggled, especially at the sophomore level, with their exams being timed.”
Even though these exams are very difficult, with the right amount of time and effort, it is certainly possible to pass with flying colors.
“My advice would be that preparation happens all year and not just the day or even week of,” Pugh said. “Practice in class, take notes, immerse yourself into the learning that’s happening all year, so that that information transfers into your long term memory, instead of that short term just memorization.”
ENDING A LEGACY
by Moira Dustin mdustin047@g.fhsdschools.org
Denise Maples has been a kind and reliable teacher at North for just about 28 years. In that time, she taught the intro to art and printmaking classes, in which she has grown many of her skills as an educator, specifically working with high school students. A lot has been adjusting the curriculum and learning better ways to let students learn to enjoy creating with their peers.
“We revamped intro to art, I think it was 2014, from the traditional way that it had been taught where it was more technique and elements and principles of art,” Maples said. “We had a shape unit, a color unit, stuff like that. Where, now, we have more concept-like ideas, themed ideas, more freedom with the curriculum.”
Many students have expressed their indirect appreciation of this shift, or of how much creative freedom is given. But the most common thought is how the atmosphere of Maples’s room is amazingly suited to all kinds of different learning styles. She is able to listen and give advice when needed, while also not being too
“I like how laid back she is and she gives you a lot of
“She’s kind of a person who just goes with the flow.”
Ariana Larsen, 10
“I like Mrs. Maples, she’s very laid back and good at teaching.”
Ryan Walker, 10
BEGINNING A JOURNEY
by Moira Dustin mdustin047@g.fhsdschools.org
On the contrary, there have also been quite a few more recent hires to the FHN teaching staff. One of these teachers is Gaite Brauns, who started a teaching career in 2023 after majoring in mathematics and minoring in education at Lindenwood and Central Methodist University. Here, Brauns teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry to mostly underclassmen, and has already become more comfortable with developing his teaching style.
“I’m not oblivious to the fact I’m not that old yet,” Brauns said. “So, the teaching philosophy that I have is basically, ‘I’m gonna do things to show you how to do it, and I’m gonna give you a chance to figure out where you’re getting lost, and then I can help you later on with how you’re getting lost and how you can get back on track with it.’”
freedom to do what you want,” junior Elizabella Guntli, a student in Maples’s intro to art class said. “I wasn’t here last year, the year before, and I did an intro class at my old school and we did not have nearly as much freedom and I actually hated it, so I was dreading to take a class here.
“She was always there to help you out when you [need] it.”
Sierra Getz, 11
“She’s the perfect mix of strict about how focused you are and letting you do your own thing.”
Grace Scott, 9
Braun’s students also agree with his teaching values and think the values create a good learning environment for everyone involved. He also incorporates one-on-one time to check on the students as they work, by walking around and offering help when needed. This is helpful to some who may not want to stand in front of the class and
“He actually stands up at the board and goes through the problems.” Natalie Lahood,
10
“Mr Braun’s is a really cool teacher, for his first year he’s definitely done a lot.”
Leo Swayney, 10
ask when something doesn’t make sense.
“Something different about Mr. Brauns is he’s very direct, in a way,” freshman Alexa Lauer in Braun’s Geometry class said. “He always likes to get to the point and doesn’t really like to mess around, if that makes
“He’s great at what he does and he makes the class and learning experience fun.”
Ethan Espinosa, 9
“[Where I sit] I am really able to focus and understand his teaching.”
Isaiah Hester, 9
Maples helps students in her 3rd hour intro to art class. (Photo by Peyton Thies)
Brauns exchanges an assignment with a student. (Photo by Kasey Lewis)
Lennon Sharp (15) and Nadia Okilee (16)
discus and javelin. Performing in unique events aligns with the unique circumstances of this team; the team has no coach, and due to construction of the new school, they have practice with rival school Francis Howell Central. Even with tough circumstances, the North throwers refuse to throw in the towel. Instead, they are thriving.
Arguably, a coach is the most important element needed for a team to function and improve. Student leaders can help, but they are not replacements for a coach. The question remains: How does a team function without a coach? Well, ‘no coach’ is not completely the truth, but it is not quite false, either.
“Jasmine Boyer was our coach,” senior Rachel Breummer said. “Her brother Kenny Boyer coached at Central, and she just moved over to Central, so we’ve all still been practicing together.”
The throw team has coaches – the Boyer siblings – but no coach is hired explicitly for North. This throws some Knights under the bus.
“We have no coach just to advocate for what North needs,” junior Kayla Spoors said. “At the beginning of the season, we had some equipment that was misplaced. We had no one to go talk to the other North track coaches for us and say, ‘Hey, we lost some things we need to go grab it and bring it over Central.’ We had to do that ourselves.”
Students can only do so much for themselves. A Student will not be listened
equipment. But not only is there no advocate, there are logistical problems, too.
“There’s so many people with Central it’s hard to find space, like in the weight room,” Breummer said. “It’s also hard to teach all these people between two coaches, especially something you’ve never done before. It’s not natural to spin in a circle and throw something.”
The issues of no coach, no advocate, no teacher and a team practicing with minimal space should negatively affect this team. What is should do is cause a team to collapse. But what it does instead creates an environment that makes the team closer than ever.
“It caused [us] to come closer,” Spoors said. “Not only was like a big group [with central] but as a North team. We’d stick together because we are each other’s support, and even though we don’t get as many reps as we would get practicing at North, we have a good sense of community and sense as a team.”
North and Central are known rivals, and like oil and water, the Knights and Spartans don’t mix. Despite this, the FHN throw team throws a curveball, as Breummer describes no difference in the teams.
“It’s funny because we don’t see them as our rivals,” Breummer said. “There’s zero separation between the two teams. They’re just my teammates that happen to be wearing a different color than me.”
For the team, having no rivalry is more
motivating.
“I don’t see them as rivals,” Spoors said. “They’re some of my best friends and my biggest competition right now. It’s like a friendly competition; I want them to succeed, as much as I want to succeed.”
As the North construction finalizes, the long-awaited practice fields and athletic facilities will be completed for the Knights. This allows the FHN throwers to go back to practicing at North. The athletes are thrown for a loop, harboring conflicting feelings towards coming back home.
“Honestly, I’m a little upset about moving back,” Spoors said. “I mean, Boyer’s been my coach for three years. It sucks because I want to have that good coach and I want to keep the bonds I have over at Central. But also, eventually, we have to move over here. I’ve been there for all three years and even without a coach, I’d love to stay there.”
“There’s zero separation between the two teams. They’re just my teammates that happen to be wearing a different color than me.”
-Rachel Bruemmer
Central throwers agree. Senior Demarkus Allison has been throwing with Central since his sophomore year, allowing him to throw with North his entire career. Though Allison is graduating, he puts himself in the perspective of the underclassmen.
“If North goes back to practicing at home, I’d be upset,” Allison said. “North makes the team fun and we are all close. I enjoy having them and I wouldn’t want them to leave.”
HEAD START AS HEAD COACH
by Addy Jones ajones483@g.fhsdschools.org
The FHN girls’ soccer program has undergone many changes this season. Matt Havermale has stepped up as head coach. Last year’s head Coach Mark Olwig stepped down after the 2024 season, leaving Assistant Coach Havermale to take on this role. Havernmale is looking for a successful season this year and in the years to come.
“Some of my main goals this season is to improve our winning percentage and to build for the future,” Havermale said. “One of the things we didn’t do last year that we need to this year is fundraising.”
Havermale wants to continue to improve the program and make some changes from the previous years. He is looking to better communicate with the players and the parents.
“Improving communication and really just sticking to my thoughts of what the team should look like is important this season,” Havermale said. “Every day is planned out, clear communication and getting the parents involved. Just trying to create that overall experience.”
The players on the team noticed some changes quickly in the season. Junior Ellie McCoy has already seen changes in practices and off-the-field activities, and she has high hopes for this season and the future of the program.
“We have had a lot more team bonding activities and outside practices before the season, instead of just jumping into it,” McCoy said. “We also definitely have a lot more strategic than basic drills during practice.”
This season, Havermale is looking to his team’s leaders, especially the seniors, to step up and help the coaching staff. The seniors have been in the program for the longest time, and Havermale needs them to help lead the younger players and get them involved.
“With the change in coaching, it’s always important to get your seniors on board with that, so they’re going to be kind of an extension of the coaching staff,” Havermale said. “Really leaning on them to get everybody involved in the program.”
Senior Mady Brewer has had years of experience in the program and has seen all the changes. She is looking forward to the new season and the new coaching staff. Brewer is especially anticipating senior night and honoring all four seniors.
“I am excited for senior night, you’ve played all the years up to this, so now it’s like your big night,” Brewer said.
UPCOMING GIRLS SOCCER
MATCHES
5:45 p.m. @ FHN 5/12
4:15 p.m. @ Troy 5/14
BOYS TENNIS PUSH LIMITS TO IMPROVE
With a mix of court time, gym workouts, pickleball and more, the boys tennis team gears up for a strong season
by Ezana Dubale edubale460@g.fhsdschools.org
The varsity boys’ tennis team put in the work this offseason through multiple different programs. Many players trained at nearby locations, such as Vetta West and several gyms, to improve their skills for the season. Jace Jameson, ranked third on the tennis team, and teammate Kai Gustafson were among these players.
“Me and Kai coach for Vetta,” Jameson said. “Anytime we get free court time, [we] go up there and hit, pretty much every day. The top six as a team all did our clinics through Vetta, and most of us do private lessons through Vetta as well.”
However, the team has focused on more training than just Vetta West. Athletes such as Max Fitzsimmons and Edward Lee helped set up the FHN Pickleball Club as well.
“Me, Kai and Edward are some of the founding members of the Pickleball Club.”
Fitzsimmons, who trained with Jameson at Vetta West said. “A lot of people at our school love pickleball and want somewhere to do it as an activity at North. It’s been so successful.”
Fitzsimmons believes that the extra practice in pickleball can work for them in the tennis season, despite pickleballs’ differences from tennis.
“Pickleball has helped a lot of people who were going to play in the tennis season,” Fitzsimmons said. “Any racket sport, you’re gonna learn hand-eye coordination, and if you play pickleball, even though you learn less mechanics of tennis’s swinging and serving, you’re going to get the hand-eye coordination where you can make good contact with the ball. [It] also stresses a lot of short movements, which is very important in tennis.”
His teammate agrees with Fitzsimmons’ idea of improvement in tennis through pickleball.
“Edward plays tennis a lot like pickleball, which honestly works really well for him,” Jameson said. “So that would translate great for Edward.”
The team has also physically trained for the season. They go up to gyms in groups to work out and build endurance for the season. Multiple athletes go up on their own as many as five times a week.
“Last year, we all worked out before we practiced,” Jameson said. “With school, gym and tennis all together, I’m not sure we would’ve kept it up if we weren’t doing it all as a team.”
Some players also frequent courts at Vetta West, hitting together and practicing their strokes. This, above tennis coaching and pickleball, translates most directly into tennis.
“[The best exercise we did was] probably just hitting with each other,” Jameson said. “It’s important, having that ability to hit together.”
But almost all of their training happens outside the gym. When on the court, communication works just as hard as any physical training on the court. Many of which believe their closeness as friends actually translates into the sport, bringing fluidity to their play.
“We all stay pretty close as friends, so we do a lot of team bonding like going out to eat,” Fitzsimmons said. “I really do believe that chemistry as a whole in a team, being close like that, can really transfer onto the court in doubles. It also helps with motivation.”
All in all, the team believes this year’s offseason was successful. Their focus on Vetta West, pickleball and physical training, as well as just being together, was a triumph for both the team’s skill and togetherness.
“I feel like training in the offseason and doing that team bonding worked out perfectly,” Fitzsimmons said. “I think we’ve had one of the better off seasons that this team has ever had.”
Havermale talks to varsity girls soccer during practice. (Photo by Jose De la Paz)
Senior Christian Portell hits ball at senior Max Fitzsimmons on April 13 during an extra tennis practice. The team met up to not only to work in an extra practice but also shoot senior banner photos. (Photo by Mirand Fabian)
SPRING SPORTS IN ACTION
Take a look at just a few of the spring sports mid-season
BOYS TENNIS Sophomore Jace Jameson swings to hit the tennis ball during his match against North Point high school. The tournament was played at FHN and was a combination of doubles and singles. The final score was 8-1, resulting in a win for
BOYS VOLLEYBALL Sophomore Noah Rowland and senior Weston Peck jump to block an attack in a home game against FHC on March 25. It was an intense game with the Knights with the Spartans going back and forth, neither taking a huge lead. The game ended in three sets with Central taking the win in all three with final scores of 25-18, 25-19, and 27-25. (Photo by Mady Brewer)
GIRLS LACROSSE On March 18, sophomore Bailey Cosby cradles the ball looking for a teammate to pass to. The Knights played in three games, each consisting of two 12-minute halves. The Knights first game was against the St. Dominic Crusaders, and it ended in a 1-4 loss. (Photo by Kaylin Mort)
FHN. (Photo by Angelee Orozco)
RED LIGHT
WARNING
Have you purchased your yearbook chronicling the 2024-25 school year?
ARE YOU SURE?
We just don’t want you to miss out. Check the “Yearbook” menu item on FHNtoday.com to make sure your name is on the list so you don’t miss out.
If you need to buy your book, you still can in room 1230 with Mrs. Kiel or online at FHNtoday.com under the “Yearbook” menu.
This year’s book will be 320 pages of full color and chronicle everything from each of the sports seasons to graduation and everything in between