V22 I3 - March 15, 2022

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

The Student Newspaper of Greenhills School

Volume 22, Issue 3

Masks slow to disappear from campus with “mask optional” policy DYLAN CARVETTE ‘23

cially at risk, and this decision feels like we are not what’s right for us at Greenhills.” being thought about by the school.”

The divide beIt’s not just families with imtween whether Starting on March 13, 2020, Greenhills stu- munocompromised members. Some masks should dents and faculty went almost two years without see- households have elderly living with stay on or come ing each other’s unmasked faces in person. But af- them or small children who are unoff isn’t black ter 717 days of first being remote, then hybrid, then able to receive the vaccine. 11th and white enin person with masks. Some Greenhills community grade dean Janelle Sterling falls into tirely.

Some members went unmasked in the building for the first this category as she has a 22-month members of time on Feb. 28. old at home. the community, Greenhills announced Feb. 25 that the school “Just a little nervous. I don’t like Leo Applewould follow in other schools’ footsteps and switch know, the whole time we’ve been folgate ‘23, took over to a mask optional policy. But students’ reac- lowing the science behind it. I would a more neutral tions to the change were mixed. trust it but be a little nervous,” Sterposition.

Some students reacted positively to the change, wel- ling said. “Doesn’t mean I wouldn’t “Currently, I’d coming the option to take masks off. take it off, I would just be a little causay no to taking “I think that if the health commission says tious.” them off since it’s alright and if cases stay low, it’s a good idea for For the past two years, my swim sea[masking] to be an optional thing,” said Graeme Greenhills has been following the son is almost Jagger ‘23, who chose to go maskless when the county restrictions and making sure over, but yes mask-optional rule went into effect. the school remains safe. Now they after the season Photo by Dylan Carvette ‘23 Othcan safely or after spring ers, howswitch their MASK OFF “Whenever change occurs, few people need to take a break,” said Aprole and then others will follow,” said English teacher Mark ever, disp r o t o c o l leadership plegate.

Randolph. “I have made the personal decision to become one of those agreed in order to leaders so students do not feel uncomfortable to take their masks off.”

Students based on make learnweren’t the only the fact ing more ones with mixed that the comfortable for some. opinions. Some teachers have expressed similarly pandem“States that have, uncertain opinions. ic is not from what I understand, “I was feeling very mixed,” said social studover. removed the mask man- ies teacher, Mackenzie Hess. “I feel like we are still “I think dates often leave it up to in a place where masking makes sense in some ways, retractschools or different coun- but on the other hand, there are places I go, like the ing the ties to make decisions gym, where I don’t wear a mask. I was feeling very Photo by Dylan Carvette ‘23 masking based on metrics,” said Head torn on Sunday night, but decided to stick with the MASKED UP “I miss seeing students’ faces,” math teacher John Holler said. “It feels weird r e q u i r e - when I see students for the first time without their masks on, having masks on takes away of Upper School, Quincy Mc- status quo on what we have been doing.” ment at from a personal feel when teaching the students.”

Laughlin. “Usually what hapBut some students still can’t bring themschool is pens with Greenhills is that selves to take their masks off, citing the ongoing an irresponsible decision by our administration as it anytime the county has made a change or the state danger of COVID-19. is not in the best interest of the students and facul- has made a change, we usually take a few days to “Masks coming off,” said Michael Nakashity,” said Nate Burke ‘23. Burke said he has a family have a conversation. Mr. Fayroian and I talk with the ma ‘25, “is just kind of asking for COVID-19 to member who is immunocompromised. “Students medical advisors and we have a conversation about spread.” like me, who have at-risk family members, are espeAssociate Editor, Print

Graphic by Caleb Lee ‘23

After COVID-19 hiatus Chocolate Lounge returns (the Pasta Dinner) and the 11th grade (the ChocoMUSTAFA ZIRAPURY ‘23 late Lounge) have served as a rite of passage and Editor In Chief a Greenhills tradition for decades but the pandemic ANNA ZELL ‘22 put a halt on these activities in March 2020.

Managing Editor “Covid forced us to cancel some things but also to evolve and try some Like other COVID-19 school new things. This will be the first big casualties, the Chocolate Lounge event thing that we haven’t been able to will spring back to life on March do and now we are able to do,” 15. As per tradition, the junior class said Dean of Students Tom Ward. has taken charge in organizing “It will still be a little differthe event to raise funds for ent, but everyone’s excited to be the Savageau Memorial back.”

Endowment Fund. GryThere will be some COVID-19 phons will be invited into adaptations to the event. Though the Campbell Center of the lounge will be mask-optional, the Performing Arts tothe Lounge will take place night to participate in the in the theater, rather than evening of jazz, comedy the dining room, and improv, and the sweet treat refood will be pre-packsponsible for coining the name aged. of the event, chocolate. “ T h e Theater Director Gary idea of moving from Lehman and Band Teacher Neil Dothe chocolate fountains nato have organized the student comedy to separating people more improv troupe and the jazz band, respecand preparing the food to-go is tively, to play in the Lounge. part of the silver lining of Covid,” “I always enjoy seeing students display said Casey. “It helps us prevent the their talents in other places spread of other viruses and illnessoutside the classroom,” said Graphic by Amy Huo ‘23 es.”

Math Teacher Eric Gajar.

The junior class has been workThings at Greenhills ing for the past several weeks to continue to slowly return back to normal with the organize the event; a group of students and comeback of such activities this year. faculty make up the Chocolate Lounge organiz“Greenhills is thirsty for community events,” ing group. However, one thing that the school has said Director of Alumni Relations Teresa Casey. moved away from this year, is the tradition of the “Anything would be nice, but the fact that the Choc- junior class selling tickets for the event. olate Lounge is coming back is great, it’s part of “The school has reconsidered selling tickets what feels normalizing about our lives back at school to school events with the thought that if we don’t sell now.” tickets, the events are all widely open to anyone who The grade-run events in the 10th grade wants to come,” said Casey.

While the Chocolate Lounge has long been a Greenhills community favorite, not everyone is aware of its history. Each year, the event alternates between supporting two different endowment funds: the Savageau Family Memorial Fund established in 2000 and the Krystal Heitman Memorial Fund in 2006. The Lounge will be fundraising for the Savageau fund this year; which was started after the death of Patrick Savageau ‘98 after a rock climbing accident resulting in his death in 2000.

“We always felt that [Greenhills] was very nurturing academically and socially, for both Patrick and Elisa” said Savageau’s Mother, Ann.“We had already established the Patrick Savageau Memorial Fund when [the school] volunteered to have the fundraiser to continue to raise money for it.”

The Savageau family started the fund in Patrick’s name to raise money for Greenhills students in need of financial support for things like class trips and prom tickets.

“I was given those kinds of opportunities when I was younger. My family didn’t have a lot of money and I got support, scholarships and so forth very early,” said Patrick Savageau’s father, Mike.

“Those early opportunities that you give people are really helpful.”

The fund works to make school events affordable for everyone.

“We both are very supportive of the efforts of Greenhills to diversify its student body in terms of socio-economic and racial demographics so it’s very important to us,” said Patrick’s mother.

The Chocolate Lounge is just one of the Greenhills normalities that is making its return, along with classes and graduation without masks, prom at the Henry Ford Museum, blood drives, school dances, and grade trips. As the pandemic slows, Greenhills is making its return back to the pre COVID-19 traditions.

Page 2

March 15, 2022

EDITORIAL We are all in this together A reminder to be respectful

As we move forward into unprecedented times, it is important to remember that we are moving forward together as a community.

The past two years have been challenging for everyone. All aspects of our lives have been affected and

continue to be affected as we move into a mask-optional setting. While many students have differing opinions on the new policy, it is important to continue to show respect toward all members of our community.

Administration has continued to recognize the importance of respecting all decisions regarding mask usage. This is incredibly important as all students, faculty, and staff have different situations at home. The use of a mask is a personal choice that should not be questioned or judged.

The pandemic alone has increased anxiety rates across the globe, and the addition of

When Future said “Mask off,” he didn’t mean now

masks has proven to have different psychological effects on students. The implementation of masks increased overall social anxiety as many students found themselves worrying about their appearance or ability to read others facial expressions and emotions. Now, as the world begins to shift to mask-optional policies, many of these fears are resurfacing.

It is important to remember that although we have all had different experiences navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been a major event that has impacted us all. It is important to always respect others’ decisions moving forward as everyone has different factors regarding their decision to mask.

As Future says, “Mask off” RISHI VERMA ‘23

ANNA ZELL ‘22 RUKMINI NALLAMOTHU ‘22

March 2020 was the last time Greenhills students were able to see each other's faces without the impediment of a mask. It’s poetic that almost exactly 2 years later, in March of 2022, that all Greenhills community members now have the option to do away with the mask.

When I walked into school on the first day that masks were optional, I myself didn’t Herded into the theater for an unexpected assembly, students, unbeknownst to them, know what I was going to do. I wanted to take my mask off but I was afraid of what my peers were about to hear information that would change their daily lives. Just weeks before the two might think of me and of what it would feel like to walk around in the school building with my year anniversary of the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown and pandemic, the school has made face uncovered. I kept my mask on for the first 30 minutes of the day but after that decided I was the decision to enact a Mask Optional policy, reversing the previous mandate. going to do what I felt like I wanted to and took it off. A face mask may seem like a small thing As the annoucement was made, the theater shockingly lacked chatter. Typically, afbut taking it off in the school building and seeing some of my peers’ faces again was truly quite ter an announcement as important as this one, every student would immediately turn to their joyful, and maybe even a little jarring. neighbor in excitement or skepticism. Were students expecting this? Scared of it? Or in disbeLike many things in our country the masks have become a large topic of debate, with lief. Whatever the sentiment, the news had come as somewhat of a surprise. There had been those advocating for them and those advocating against. I’m not saying either decision is right consideration of a Mask optional mandate as the county made the shift, however, there were and oftentimes everyone's situation is different and therefore it’s hard to say that one choice is the very few people who expected the school to follow those orders. As an independent instution, clear one. I know many of my peers are upset that the school has made masks optional and thus the school has the ability to transition however they deem necessary. In this case, they followed the majority of students I’ve seen in the building are still mostly wearing their masks. I have no the county. issue with this and I even sometimes still put my mask back on if a lot of those around me are Returning back to “normal” has been anticipated and a frequent topic of discussion, wearing theirs or if I just decide I want to. and it is understood that at some point, a turn to a maskless life was inevitable. What surprised My stance on the subject isn’t whether or not people should be wearing masks, that’s a many students was the time at which it came. decision for each individual to make for themselves. My stance is that I support Greenhills’ deTwo weeks ago, Washtenaw County Health officials lifted the mask mandate. After alcision to make masks optional. I know many people may say that the pandemic isn’t most two years of grueling dispute and exhausting discussions, it seems as though people have over and that the administration should not be making decisions that will just given up. Lifting mask mandates is an easier choice, giving into the anti-mask rhetoric that largely affect only the student body. I personally however see the reasoning, has been the thorn in the side of every health official. But masks are more than just care and thought, as well as science behind Greenhills’ decision on the suba debate. They save lives. ject.

We’re not wearing masks just because the CDC says so. We wear 99% of the Greenhills community is fully vaccinated. If what we already masks to protect our families and the families of our classmates. The guideknow about the vaccine's effectiveness isn’t enough, here are a few statistics lines of the CDC often change and the most recent adaptation was even dethat may help display it. The Virginia Department of Health’s data collection nounced by The American Medical Association. Those that work in medishows that only 26 out of every 1000 vaccinated individuals get Covid-19. cine, including many of our parents, can’t afford to have guidelines relaxed The Washington State Department of Health released a study where for a without fear of another wave. Hospitals have been overwhelmed and unsample size of 4 million people, only about 1 in 5,000 vaccinated individuals able to take new patients because of lack of beds and space in morgues got covid and only 0.3% of those who were vaccinated and got Covid-19 were multiple times and there’s no doubt it’ll happen again if we continue to hospitalized. ignore simple I ’ m precautions sure Greensuch as a painhills did it’s less piece of research, but cloth on our beyond that, faces. Our acthe school tions directly also seeked impact not advice from just those who medical prowill unfortufessionals nately catch like infecCOVID-19 tious disease and not doctors at the bounce back University to normal, of Michigan but also the as well as thousands of worked with doctors and the Washtnurses who enaw Comhave to watch munity Dehundreds of partment of their patients Health before die from making their COVID-19, decision. a preventable If the data and science virus. isn’t enough for all howevAs we all saw with Delta and Omicron, a quick-spreading-variant er, there’s also the logical can and will come out of nowhere quickly. If another variant were to come aspect to it. Many of those about, reinstating a mask mandate once it arrives doesn’t do anything. Case in the Greenhills commureporting lags from the initial point of transmission, it may very well be too nity put themselves in late. We wait for this to unfold now as HongKong battles a major outbreak situations where they Editor-in-Chief Musatafa Zirapury ‘23 of the “Stealth Variant” of the Omicron strain along with 74 other countries Dylan Carvette ‘23 are far more likely to get Associate Editor, Print according to the World Health Organization; studies also show that this new Associate Editor, Online Arjun Prabhakar ‘23 AsCovid-19 compared to sociate Editor, Design Amy Huo ‘23 variant is 30 percent more transmissible than the original Omicron strain. getting it from Greenhills. Managing Editor Anna Zell ‘22 At this point, it’s possible you’re thinking “Well I had COVID-19, and Whether it be a gathering School Editor Chakor Rajendra ‘23 I’m fine.” And that’s great for you, but that’s unfortunately not the case with everyRobyn Holland ‘22 with friends, a sporting School Staff one who gets it. It is our duty as citizens to create a more virtuous society to protect School Staff Caleb Lee ‘23 event, or even going to School Staff Emma Stephens ‘25 those who won’t be fine—those who are immunocompromised, have pre-existing a store without a mask, Opinion Editor Rukmini Nallamothu ‘22 lung conditions, those who live with their grandparents, and a thousand other reamany of those things are Lifestyles Editor Anjan Singer ‘24 sons prove that simply wearing a mask to protect the people around you is a selfless Lauren Minai-Azary ‘24 just as risky, if not more Lifestyles Staff act that outweighs any annoyances you may have with the cloth on your face. And, Eliot Ahn ‘25 risky, as at least the Green- Lifestyles Staff Sports Editor Pranay Shah ‘23 even if you are vaccinated, you could still end up in the hospital; it’s better to be hills population is Sports Staff Mikayla Eccleston ‘25 safe than sorry. fully vac- Sports Staff Rishi Verma ‘23 Students seem to be on a similar page. An estimated 80 percent Amy Huo ‘22 cinated. Arts Editor of students on Monday, the first day of the lifted mandates, were still Alcove Club President Maraki Tamrat ‘23 I’m not Advisor John Lund wearing masks. Whether it was more for safety reasons, or the fear of s a y scrutiny, the mask-optional school on Monday, February 28th looked ing to not Alcove is a newspaper written by students, for the fairly similar to the mask-required one on Friday, February 25th. do these students of Greenhills School. All opinions, views, Masks obviously aren’t ideal. However, over 950,000 Americans and statements reflect those of the students working Graphic by Amy Huo ‘23 things, not at all. have died from COVID-19. As the country approaches the grim 1 million I personally believe we are at a point on Alcove and not necessarily the faculty and staff marker, mandates seem to be relaxing, including the optional mask policy at school. Now is not where these things are safe. All I’m saying is that of Greenhills. Alcove is written to inform, encourage, and expand upon the curiosity of the students the time. At this point, no one truly knows the answer. There is no road map telling us what to if we are at a point where the science shows those that Greenhills strives to cultivate. Providing a fodo. With that, the only thing we do know how to do is show compassion and selflessness. things are safe, we’re also at a point where masks rum for students to express their individuality, the We remain Greenhills students, committed to bettering our communities; we need to can be optional in the school building, and it’s Alcove reminds you to always read the pine print. continue to wear masks not just for ourselves but for the people around us. unfair to give Greenhills heat for their decision.

“If another variant were to come about, reinstating a mask mandate once it arrives doesn’t do anything”

“I see the reasoning, care and thought, as well as science behind Greenhills’ decision”

PAGE 3

MARCH 15, 2022

To trip or not to trip

8th grade heads to D.C., other excursions on hiatus ARJUN PRABHAKAR‘23 Associate Editor, Online

With constantly changing COVID guidelines and uncertainties around the world, some of the Greenhills trips are returning after pandemic hiatuses.

With more and more Americans getting vaccinated across the nation travel guidelines have easened up, the administration on par with Spanish teacher Kevin Olson and history teacher and grade leader Kate Vane have decided that it is safe enough for the middle school Washington D.C. trip to happen.

However, with constantly changing conditions in foreign countries, and travel bans and guidelines being changed on a daily basis, the administration has decided that it is currently unsafe for the students to go out of the country for a school trip.

During the summer, upper school students are given the opportunity to travel to foreign countries with their language teachers and family members. Students taking Spanish usually go to Cuba or Spain, French students to France, Mandarin students to China, and Latin students to Greece.

“The language trips allow students to grow as a language learner and get a real sense of why they are learning the language,” said Olson. “You’re not learning it because some adult wants you to learn it. You’re not learning it because it’s going to get you into college. You’re not learning it for your GPA. You’re learning it because you are going to be able to communicate with somebody, a real person, and that feels really good.”

The language trips allow the students to go to different countries and try out their language skills trying to speak with the local people. It gives the students a real world experience and an experience of a lifetime.

“The experience is a huge boost towards your self esteem that makes you feel like you have a purpose in these classes. It has a real world purpose,” said Olson.

As well as learning the purpose of learning their language, students also experience many moments that they will re-

member for the rest of their lives.

“One of my favorite memories from past language trips was when we took dancing classes one night,” said Olson. “There were Costa Rican dancers guiding us and everyone was letting loose and stepping out of their comfort zone. I think a huge part of traveling is that you need to take some risks and do things you wouldn’t normally do. You end up really enjoying these moments and it becomes a very memorable part of a trip.”

Unfortunately, students have not been able to experience special moments such as this in almost 3 years.

“With the everchanging COVID-19 cases and new variants, there are just too many risks and possible problems to plan a foreign trip in these uncertain times,” said Latin teacher Jeffrey Allen.

With no language trips in the past three years, many students have been unable to apply their language skills in a real world scenario and experience the culture they learn about first hand. As many students have graduated from Greenhills in the past three years they have been stripped from this experience, and may never be able to take a trip out of the country with their peers.

“It’s unfortunate that many students have and may not be able to experience speaking Spanish in a foreign country,” said Olson. “For some students, as well as myself, the language trips have been life changing. I often warn people traveling to Spanish speaking countries because, if you are like me, you’ll come back and end up wanting to become a Spanish teacher. It’s just that much fun.”

Although the language trips will not happen this year, the Washington, D.C. trip will happen for 8th graders.

“As of right now the trip is a go. As we know from this pandemic anything could happen, but we are feeling confident that this one will go forward” said Vane.

Similarly to the language trips, students have many experiences that they remember forever and ones that might even influence their careers.

“Some of the best moments I have had over the years was

when we met multiple senators,” said Vane. “The students loved it and many found the meeting to be very inspirational. It is a new experience for students to run into politicians doing their work in real time, and to meet people that they may have seen on TV or read about, like Ted Cruz.”

The reason the Washington, D.C. trips will happen while the language trips are canceled is due to the safety of the students.

“For the D.C. trips, students will board a bus and ride down to D.C. We have to follow the orders from the tour company, Brightspark. Currently, they are requiring us to wear masks on the buses and any indoor spaces, except for when students are in their hotel rooms. We will ensure all students are wearing masks at all times and have been tested prior to going on the trips. Students will share hotel rooms for a week and enjoy the capital,” said Vane.

Since the trip will be made in a bus, and is in the United States, the faculty felt that there was no major risk for the students to go. There is no chance for them to get locked out of Michigan, even if something were to occur they would be able to make it back home safely.

“For the foreign language trips, there are too many risks such as being stranded in a foreign country and students must board an airplane to travel to the country, exposing them to many more people,” said Allen.

When asked about the return of high school trips, Dean of Students Tom Ward seemed optimistic about them.

“We are hopeful that we can return to our normal upper school class trips in the fall. Freshmen take a trip up to Torch Lake where students stay in cabins and participate in a variety of team building activities, sophomores go on an overnight camping trip, juniors go on a service trip to Detroit, and seniors go on a two day trip to Chicago.

By making masks optional, and bringing back old school traditions and school trips, the school seems to be returning back to normal, and hopefully in the near future we will also be able to bring back our international language trips.

Photo courtesy of Brightspark MONUMENTAL Greenhills has not had a Washington, D.C. trip in three years. “The D.C. trip has been one of my favorite memories while at Greenhills. It created inseparable bonds between me and my classmates that would last throughout high school,” said Leo Applegate ‘23.

“A thousand little cuts”

Affinity group leaders acknowledge progress, say more work needed on microaggressions CALEB LEE‘23 School Staff

Over the past decade, Greenhills has pushed anti-racist efforts and programs. However, according to students, help and reform is only issued after microaggressions have occurred.

For many students, the concept of microaggressions was first introduced in the Fresh program in ninth grade.

“A microaggression is an everyday occurrence of a small, racist, homophobic, or marginalizing act,” said Hispanic and Latinx Organization (HALO) Leader Sofia Csaszar ‘22.

All students that attended the Fresh program were familiarized with the concept, but students of color are much conscious of the issue.

“I’ve definitely experienced people making comments that make me uncomfortable that were about my race or cultural stuff,” said South Asian Affinity Network (SAAN) Leader Avni Mangrulkar ‘22.

Microaggressions may be generally categorized by students as marginalizing acts that are done unintentionally, unconsciously or subtly. The seeming subtlety of microaggressions allows for them to infiltrate daily life and become normalized. Csaszar faced many unmistakeable microaggressions since she first started attending Greenhills.

“Hearing the everyday ‘go back to your country’…

When Trump was president I would hear ‘build the wall’ a lot,” said Csaszar.

Csaszar was also told by a student ev eryday that they should be deported, among other things.

The student no

longer attends Greenhills of their own

Graphic by Caleb Lee ‘23

choice, however this was after around 3 years of repeated harassment.

“Affinity groups are already a helpful safe space and the bias response forms will hopefully help people coming forward, after these happen,” said Arab American Affinity Group Teacher Lead Natalie Caramagno.

Caramagno placed an emphasis on current Greenhills resources only being implemented after the fact. Even then it may only be utilized as a second option.

“I would probably tell one of my friends that has the same identity as me or my sister,” said Arab American Affinity Group Leader Olivia Emerson ‘22, in regards how she would react if she were to experience a microaggression.

On the other hand, teachers say they would most likely use Greenhills sources.

“I would tell Ms. Hall or Dr. Williams or any other teacher that would handle that sort of thing,” Caramagno said.

Fresh was a resource that aimed to educate students and to provide help before microaggressions could even take place, but students have also thought of their own ways to help.

“Greenhills should definitely hold seminars for each grade talking about these and especially get people from certain groups … HALO could give a seminar … to talk about their experiences,” said Csaszar.

Students wish for greater empathy in the community, and faculty are still looking for ways to help.

“Students should feel comfortable sharing their cultures and identities within the community.

This would help to prevent microaggressions and raise awareness to the importance of understanding people’s cultures and identities,” said East Asian Pacific American Coalition (EAPAC) Leader Emma Zhang ‘23.

“The goal for students out for a longer period of time, or for any injured student, is to get better, and we as a school don’t want to slow that process down,” said Smith.

PAGE 4

March 15, 2022 March 15, 2022

And the Grammy goes to...

RISHI VERMA ‘23

With 2021-2022 being a big year for music, especially up and coming artists who are shifting the genre, the best new artist award is certainly a competitive landscape. The ten nominees were Arooj Aftab, Jimmie Allen, Baby Keem, FINNEAS, Glass Animals, Japanese Breakfast, The Kid LAROI, Arlo Parks, Olivia Rodrigo and Saweetie. A few stand out from this group for me.

Glass Animals with hits like Heat Waves and The Other Side of Paradise are certainly a top contender as well as The Kid LAROI, who has released multiple albums as well as averages 47,025,385 Spotify listeners alone each month.

However, one artist stands above the rest. Olivia Rodrigo is my pick to win Best New Artist. With an incredible first year, sporting two No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 (“Drivers License” and “Good 4 U”) and a No. 1 debut album (“Sour”), as well as Drivers License being the most streamed song for 11 straight months, from Jan. 1 to Nov. 27 in 2021, it is hard to pick against Rodrigo.

Though the Covid-19 pandemic has hampered many individuals from doing their work in a normal fashion, music artists remain unhampered and have been able to continuously release hit song after hit song. This year’s nominees for best song written include the following songs: “Bad Habits,” “A Beautiful Noise,” “Drivers License,” “Fight For You,” “Happier Than Ever,” “Kiss Me More,” “Leave The Door Open,” “Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” “Peaches” and “Right On Time.”

These songs already set themselves apart from the count-

PAGE 5

Sophomore laments impact of COVID-19 on films And the Oscar goes to...

less other hits released in the last year, but within this group, two stand out.

Again, Olivia Rodrigo with her hit song Driver’s License rises above the rest. At just 18, her song Drivers License has been streamed over 1.1 billion times and was the most listened to song in 2021.

However, one other song also stands out.

Billie Eilish Happier Than Ever shows growth and maturity from an already well renowned artist in her genre as well as a quality hit that many listeners would play on repeat. For me however, it is again hard to pick against Rodrigo and I see her winning the award for best new song with her hit Drivers License.

In comparison to Song of the Year, the

recipient of Record of the Year goes “to the Artist and to the Producer(s), Recording Engineer(s) and/or Mixer(s) and mastering engineer(s), if other than the artist” according to the Recording Academy. The nominees for record of the year include the following songs: I Still Have Faith In You,” “Freedom,” “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” “Peaches,” “Right On Time,” “Kiss Me More,” “Happier Than Ever,” “Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” “Drivers License” and “Leave The Door Open.” I personally believe that Happier Than Eve deserves to win as it contains many elements of different types of music, including surprisingly, stylistic Rock elements. Though I believe Billie Eilish with Happier Than Ever deserves to win, I see Olivia Rodrigo with Driver’s License ultimately coming away with it as the hype around her is just too much to overcome.

The Album of the Year nominees this year feature an amazing crop of works including another by last year’s winner Taylor Swift. The nominees for album of the year include the following albums: “Evermore,” “We Are,” “Love For Sale,” “Justice (Triple Chucks Deluxe),” “Planet Her (Deluxe),” “Happier Than Ever,” “Back Of My Mind,” “Montero,” “Sour” and “Donda.” In my mind, Donda should be the winner. The album was unique and featured the return of a Kanye West album similar to the one many West fans have been missing for the last few years.

However, given West’s behavior and actions as of late I don’t see him coming away with the award. I believe it will go to Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour as again the hype surrounding her is too much and the album features both of her biggest hits.

LAUREN MINAI-AZERY‘24

In 2020, the movie watching landscape was completely changed by the pandemic. Time spent at the theaters buying popcorn and watching new movies with friends quickly shifted to staying at home and watching movies from streaming platforms.

This shift also greatly impacted viewing trends surrounding award shows like the Oscars. Before the pandemic, the Oscars would have anywhere from 25 to 50 million viewers each year. However, the 2021 Oscars only reached 9.23 million viewers, a 51 percent drop from the previous year. During its opening weekend, Nomadland, which debuted in select theaters and on the streaming platform Hulu, had only grossed about 3 million dollars, which made it the lowest-grossing film to win the best picture award.

Similarly, the American movie theater industry has also suffered an extreme loss in revenue compared to its pre pandemic years. Even though theaters began to reopen during the summer of 2020, the movie theater industry has yet to make a full comeback. Between the continued risk of catching COVID-19, the added cost of movie theater tickets along with concession purchases, and the general inconvenience of going to a movie theater, many people still prefer to watch movies at home.

Out of desperation to see a return on their investments, studios started releasing movies directly to streaming platforms in order to maximize profit. In the early stages of the pandemic when theaters were completely shut down, studios needed to find new distribution methods for movies scheduled to be released. While studios now made it possible for movie fanatics to enjoy newly released films during a time when theater attendance was prohibited,

this decision also further pushed the lasting pandemic mentality of having an increased amount of services available at home.

The decline of movie theaters has also affected the viewership of Oscar

nominated films as well as the award show itself. I myself haven’t seen any of the nominated films for this year’s awards due to their general inaccessibility during the pandemic. For me, the excitement of watching the Oscars comes from seeing if my favorite movie or actor/actress is worthy of an award. In past years, I would look forward to watching the Oscars as I would usually watch a lot of the nominated films, although this year I have

less interest in the award show given that the films nominated are unfamiliar. Similarly I also have less attachment to the actors and actresses who may be up for an award in these same movies.

Despite this, recent trends indicate that there is still hope for the movie theater industry. As COVID-19 cases steadily decrease and people begin to return to their pre-pandemic lifestyles, there is a renewed interest in the traditional movie theater experience.

Studios are starting to release their movies exclusively in theaters again now that they know there is a reliable consumer base.

For example, in December 2021, Spider-Man: No Way Home, which was only available in theaters, brought in 260 million dollars during its opening weekend and has now earned over 1.7 billion dollars worldwide. Even though it may take some time, we will certainly see people leave their couches to return to the theater and eventually root on their favorite movie or actor in future Oscar award shows.

Graphic by Caleb Lee ‘23

MUSTAFA ZIRAPURY ‘23 ANNA ZELL ‘22

After a brutal two years due to the pandemic, the film industry is making a comeback.

With theaters closing, creators had to come up with creative solutions for viewers to be able to watch their new movies. Many movies were released on streaming platforms allowing customers to watch new movies from the comfort and safety of their own home. With all of these new movies released there is no clear winner for this year’s Oscar for best picture. The nominees for this category are The Power of the Dog, Belfast, West Side Story, Licorice Pizza, Dune, CODA, King Richard, Don’t Look Up, Drive My Car, and Nightmare Alley. The movies that seem to be the front runners are: The Power of the Dog, Belfast, and King Richard. In our opinion, The Power of the Dog will take home the Oscar for best picture. The film has all the ingredients needed for success with a beautiful story backdropped by amazing landscapes. With a stellar performance from Benedict Cumberbatch, the film is nominated for 13 Oscar categories; The Power of the Dog is an excellent front runner to take home the award for best picture.

The nominees for this year’s best actor are Will Smith (King Richard), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Andrew Garfield (Tick... Tick...

Boom), Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth), and Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos).

The front runners for this award are Will Smith, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Andrew Garfield. Over the past 80 years, the majority of actors who

Lights, camera, familiar faces

took home the Golden Globe for best actor award also took home the Oscar for best actor; this year, Smith took the Golden Globe award for his performance in King Richard, which makes him the likely candidate to win the Oscar.

Smith played the role of Richard Williams, both coach and father of Serena and Venus Williams. He played a difficult role and was able to portray both his roles as a coach and a father. Cumberbatch also makes a strong case for himself with his performance in The Power of the Dog. However, with Smith already winning the Golden Globe best actor award, it seems that he has the best chance for winning this Oscar.

The nominees for this year’s best actress award are Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos), Kristen Stewart (Spencer), Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye), Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter), and Penelope Cruz (Parallel Mothers). This award is wide open, and almost all of the nominees have a strong chance to take home the trophy. The three front runners for the award are Nicole Kidman, Kristen Stewart, and Jessica Chastain. Kidman seems to have the strongest chance of winning this award, as she also took home the Golden Globe award this year. However, within the past few weeks the support behind Chastain has grown immensely, and in recent polls the odds of her winning the best actress award have only grown more and more. With a category that is already close, our bets are on Chastian to win the Oscar, as the momentum and support she has going directly into the Oscars is much greater than those competing against her.

Best supporting actor this year is a nice mix of relative unknowns, veterans, and common

names who have taken a more interesting step back away from the spotlight in 2021’s film output. The nominees for this year’s best supporting actor are Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog), Troy Kotsur (CODA), Ciaran Hinds (Belfast), J.K. Simmons (Being the Ricardos), and Jesse Plemons (The Power of the Dog). The two front runners for this award are Smit-McPhee, and Hinds. Smit-McPhee had a brilliant performance in The Power of the Dog which immediately put him on the map. However over the past few weeks Hinds has been chipping away at McPhee’s support and has slowly been catching back up to his rival. In the end we feel that Smit-Mcphee will take home the Oscar, as his performance in The Power of the Dog is one of the reasons why the movie was so great, and with all the hype surrounding him it is hard to bet against him.

The nominees for this year’s best supporting actress are Ariana DeBose (West Side Story), Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), Jessie Buckley (The Lost Daughter), and Judi Dench (Belfast). The front runners for this award are Ellis, DeBose, and Dunst. These actresses already set them apart from many others in this category, but within this group one stands out for us.

Deboses’ performance in West Side Story was outstanding, arguably the best performance in the

Trophy Graphics by Amanda Chen ‘24

Lund live from the White House

Bellamy plays baneful prep student

McBride mystifies in crime drama

RUKMINI NALLAMOTHU ‘22 Opinion Editor

Government & Politics and Journalism teacher and Alcove sponsor John Lund started his career on TV straight out of Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism as an on-air reporter, producer, and writer for an NBC affiliate. He worked in East Lansing covering everything from egg shortages, the governor’s press conferences, to bed bugs at Michigan State.

He accredited his ability to jump into what he called being a “one man band” to his experience

VIOLET WEIZER ‘22 Lifestyles Staff

Former actor and current forensics coach Ben Bellamy has played two roles in his acting career. When Bellamy was 6 years old, he acted as an extra on Mr. Bean, a British sitcom that first aired in 1990. In 2015, he played Caleb Zechman, a rugby player in the film Prep School.

“When I was really, really little I was an extra in an episode of Mr. Bean,” said Bellamy. “I was like 6 or something, and they needed kids.

I was going to a drama class at the time and they chose us to play extras on the show.”

Rowan Atkinson plays Mr.

RUKMINI NALAMOTHU ‘22 Opinion Editor

Drama teacher Katie McBride has been acting for over a decade and has built up a repertoire in television. Whether playing a zombie or the wife of a serial killer, she demonstrates her love for acting through her charismatic persona.

As a teacher, McBride incorporates what she has learned into the curriculum.

Having previous experience gives her something that most people have no idea about. Behind the scenes, TV acting can

at Medill.

“The style of teaching was quite hands-on,” Lund said.

“You’re tossed out of your comfort zone on day one.”

Having done it all, he notes that the biggest challenge in journalism is adapting.

When covering a small town war hero’s funeral procession, a gust of wind blew all of his equipment over, and shattered his camera. He found himself unable to tell the story as he planned.

“In news, you can’t prepare for all situations and you have to be able to think on your feet,”

Lund said.

For the funeral procession, he immediately took out his phone and started taking pictures.

If he wasn’t going to have the interviews on camera, the least he could do was document the event using his cell phone camera.

For anyone, cell phones can be a powerful tool in reporting.

Anyone can start taking pictures, documenting things, and writing online. Your story, essentially, can be told with what you already have.

Bean, a man that never speaks and gets into strange situations because of his ‘lack of knowledge about social rules’.

“The episodes were really short as I recall,” said Bellamy. “But I barely remember the Mr. Bean thing because I was so young, and being an extra is very weird. You’re basically told where to go and there’s a lot of sitting around and waiting, but it was cool to see a TV show made when I was 6, not that I understood most of it.”

Aside from Mr. Bean, Bellamy was also part of an independent film called Prep School. lived in the U.K. at the time when he auditioned, but was in the U.S. for a wedding.

“My brother told me about this audition that he was going to, and said ‘hey you should do this too’ because at the time I was trying to be a working actor,” said Bellamy. “When I auditioned, I actually couldn’t go to the audition because of the wedding, but I sent in a video audition, and the director really liked it.”

Acting advice that Bellamy gives to students is that acting on film isn’t as ‘glamorous’ as people might think, but ‘you’ve got to have a mix of talent, hard work and perseverance to act well.

be a long and grueling process.

“Most people don’t really know how long the days truly can be,” said McBride. “In TV and film, you might do something over and over again, and so you have to keep it fresh each time.”

Despite the long days, exhausting shoots, and meticulous directors, she has gotten to work with some big names.

In the film No Sudden Move, streaming now on HBO, a Drama film featuring David Harbour, Julia Fox, and Don Cheadle, McBride plays Dawn

Atkinson, the best friend of the protagonist.

Working as an actor, she has faced many challenges.

Perseverance, to her, is essential.

She encourages and implores students to keep an open and optimistic mind when pursuing acting.

“In most fields, and acting is no exception, cultivating that idea of being a lifelong learner is important,” said McBride. “You are never done learning things, so keep loving it and keep learning.”

Photos Courtesy of IMBD

MARCH 15, 2022

PAGE 6

Hands on learning

Graphic by Amy Huo‘23

painted animals using watercolor.

Chinese classes assign art projects to and they These projects were designed to not only make students’ learning experience students for the Chinese New Year more fun but also help them know more

AMY HUO ‘23 Arts Editor

Hoping to make the Chinese classes more interesting, Chinese teacher Hsiu-Chao Chang decided to incorporate more art into the classroom as well as students’ assignments.

Chang tries to connect art projects with topics that the Chinese classes are learning, hoping that it would increase the students’ interests and make the information easier to process. She assigns painting and calligraphy projects regularly, and the students’ artworks get hung up in the hallways for everyone to look at.

The most recent art activity was for the Chinese New Year.

Chang decided to assign different art or calligraphy projects to different levels of classes. She chose to incorporate traditional Chinese watercolor into the students’ art projects. Chinese 1 students’ projects were landscapes. Chinese 2 students worked on fish paintings. Chinese 3 students painted tigers for the Year of Tiger. Chinese 4 and AP Chinese worked on the same project, which combined Chinese calligraphy as well as art: each student chose a Chinese word that represents what they want this year to be like,

about the Chinese culture and language.

“The students really enjoy learning about traditional Chinese arts, and they get to explore the culture by doing these art projects,” said Chang. “There are also a lot of flexibilities on what they want to work on.”

The students in Chinese classes have much positive feedback for their experience doing the art projects. For example, the students who did Chinese calligraphy, like that they are writing Chinese artistically and that they can memorize the words better.

“For my project, I decided to paint a swan, and I chose “Fang” as my word of the year, meaning release and moving on,” said Annie Stone ’23, a Chinese 4 student. “I like working on my art project a lot. It did not only feel like I was doing an assignment, but it also felt like I was creating art.”

It is not just an assignment, it is also art.

When you walk past the hallway next to the Chinese

classroom, you can always see students’ artworks exhibited on the wall, and each one is different from the others. These artworks not only decorate the building, but they also represent the students’ learning of their classes.

“I always walk through that hallway in order to get to my office,” said Cora Chester, associate director of college counseling. “It just makes my mood better to see those beautiful artworks created by the Chinese class students. They demonstrate these students’ artistic talents as well as how much they have learned from their classes.”

Art projects are involved in other subjects, not just Chinese classes, with the same purpose–to interest students to learn, bring out their artistic abilities, and deepen their understanding of the classes’ material.

CLASSROOM CALLIGRAPHY “I think if we are to study Chinese culture, the Chinese art is important to study as well because its such an integral part of the culture,” said Emma Zhang ’23. “I really liked being able to learn hands on and being able revert back to arts and crafts in school to learn.”

“Spelling Bee” provides needed comedic laughs

Photo Courtesty of Hsiu-Chao Chang

a musical on the stage in our building and the Greenhills theater performed Spelling Bee this last weekend. The musical is also following Greenhills latest update to it’s mask policy with students Theater at Greenhills has been in one long intermission actually being able to perform with their faces being fully seen if for the last two years given the Coronavirus pandemic and though they so like. there were still attempts to have theater digitally, nothing comI’m not necessarily a big connoisseur of plays and or pares to the in person experience. This year was the first return of musicals but I do enjoy them, so I went to one of the last dress a musical on the stage in our building and the Greenhills theater rehearsals of the Greenhills production of Spelling Bee to get close performed The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee this last to the process as well as see the whole show. weekend. The musical is also following Greenhills latest update to The show is directed by technology coordinator Gary it’s mask policy with students actually being able to perform with Lehman and his style of directing is certainly his own. Lehman their faces being fully seen if they so like. likes to make jokes and have a good time with the cast and I think I’m not necessarily his directing plays a big role in the enjoyment of the cast. a big connoisseur of plays They all seem to really enjoy it, even when changing things and or musicals but I do enor correcting errors. I think this actually allows them to put joy them, so I went to one on a better show as what I’ve learned is when one enjoys of the last dress rehearsals doing something they typically do it better and with their of the Greenhills producbest effort and I don’t see why that would be any different tion of Spelling Bee to get for a theatrical production. Spelling Bee is a lighthearted close to the process as well comedy of a musical and I think Gary’s relaxed, humoras see the whole show. ous, yet focused directing style fits well with the piece they The show is diare performing. rected by technology coThe musical consists of an eclectic group of sixth-graders ordinator Gary Lehman who arrive at Spelling Bee, each eager to win for very difand his style of directing is ferent reasons. Sweet yet shy Olive brings her only friend, certainly his own. Lehman a dictionary, with her to the bee; bold and certainly original likes to make jokes and competitor William Barfee uses his “magic foot” to propel have a good time with the him to greatness. Former champion Chip must learn to cast and I think his directcompete through personal struggle. Easily distracted, Leaf ing plays a big role in the is convinced that he isn’t smart enough to be a challengenjoyment of the cast. They er. Never satisfied Marcy is disappointed by her constant all seem to really enjoy it, success. Lastly, politically aware Logainne Schwartzandeven when changing things grubenierre only wants to impress her parents. Through a or correcting errors. I think diverse repertoire of characters Spelling Bee tells the story this actually allows them of each speller through hilariously personal songs as they to put on a better show as make their way through the competition. what I’ve learned is when Spelling Bee put on by Greenhills certainly wasn’t a one enjoys doing somethriller that had audience members hanging by the edge of thing they typically do it their seats but I think there’s definitely an important place better and with their best in theater for more lighthearted easy-going pieces like this Photo by Annie Stone ‘23 effort and I don’t see why one. I found myself to actually really enjoy the piece but it that would be any different for BREAK A LEG Dash Mangrulkar ‘24 sang Andy Zhang ‘24 off the stage after Zhang mispelled a word. “I’ve really enjoyed being back also didn’t leave you pondering for hours after like some a theatrical production. Spell- on stage and can’t wait to perform again after a two year hiatus from the stage,” said Zhang. theatrical productions often do. ing Bee is a lighthearted comThe plot was easy to pick up on and I was able to feel edy of a musical and I think like I really understood all the different characters and even Gary’s relaxed, humorous, yet found myself rooting for some to win the bee. There was a lot of between the characters. focused directing style fits well with the piece they are performing.

Greenhills also put an original twist on their production silly humor which I also appreciated as not all humor has to be The musical consists of an eclectic group of sixth-graders of Spelling Bee by including audience members as well as faculty interpreted and I liked how much of the humor were simple jokes who arrive at Spelling Bee, each eager to win for very different as additional spellers in the bee which I think was entertaining for or things said between the characters. reasons. Sweet yet shy Olive brings her only friend, a dictionary, Greenhills also put an original twist on their production the audience as well as the actual individuals selected. with her to the bee; bold and certainly original competitor William All in all I found my expectations to be thoroughly ex- of Spelling Bee by including audience members as well as faculty Barfee uses his “magic foot” to propel him to greatness. Former ceeded by the Greenhills production of Spelling Bee and I wouldn’t as additional spellers in the bee which I think was entertaining for champion Chip must learn to compete through personal struggle. be surprised to find myself going to more Greenhills productions the audience as well as the actual individuals selected.

Easily distracted, Leaf is convinced that he isn’t smart enough All in all I found my expectations to be thoroughly exin the future. to be a challenger. Never satisfied Marcy is disappointed by her Theater at Greenhills has been in one long intermission ceeded by the Greenhills production of Spelling Bee and I wouldn’t constant success. Lastly, politically aware Logainne Schwartzandfor the last two years given the Coronavirus pandemic and though be surprised to find myself going to more Greenhills productions grubenierre only wants to impress her parents. Through a diverse there were still attempts to have theater digitally, nothing com- in the future. repertoire of characters Spelling Bee tells the story of each speller pares to the in person experience. This year was the first return of through hilariously personal songs as they make their way through

RISHI VERMA ‘23

the competition.

Spelling Bee put on by Greenhills certainly wasn’t a thriller that had audience members hanging by the edge of their seats but I think there’s definitely an important place in theater for more lighthearted easy-going pieces like this one. I found myself to actually really enjoy the piece but it also didn’t leave you pondering for hours after like some theatrical productions often do.

The plot was easy to pick up on and I was able to feel like I really understood all the different characters and even found myself rooting for some to win the bee. There was a lot of silly humor which I also appreciated as not all humor has to be interpreted and I liked how much of the humor were simple jokes or things said

MARCH 15, 2022

PAGE 7

Fin(n)al season

Finn Klein ‘22 brings school it’s first Ann Arbor athlete of the week award PRANAY SHAH ‘23 Sports Editor

More than 80,000 votes were cast for the Jan.15 Ann Arbor Athlete of the Week. When all was said and done, Finn Klein ‘22 blew the rest of the 12 candidates away and brought home the first Ann Arbor athlete of the week award to the school with 10,000 more votes than the runner-up.

The candidates were nominated by coaches in Washtenaw county and they varied from all winter sports making this award even more impressive.

The award is the result of his hard work and passion for the game, said brother and former teammate Owen Klein ‘20.

“Finn has always put in the work on and off the court, outworking his opponents and teammates to be the best, he is one of the most competitive people I have ever met,” said Owen Klein.

Since a young age, Klein has never backed down from his opponents, said former teammate Gabe Seir ‘20. He was always confident in his abilities and did not let his age or size affect his game.

“I first met Finn when he was a fourth-grader, even then he was great at basketball, small and shifty, and [he] could even play with us older kids and even [started] trash-talking us,” said Seir.

Klein’s talent proved to be more than enough as he made the varsity basketball team as a freshman.

He had to face the adversity of being a smaller player on the team at the time.

“No matter how good you are at a particular sport, it’s a different world competing against 18-yearolds as a 9th grader, so when a 9th grader makes varsity, the physical gap is so huge,” said Coach Tom Ward.

However, Klein handled this challenge with his good work ethic and rose to another challenge later in the season. “[Klein] did a great job of working hard in practice, waiting for his chance in games, and when the time came he was ready for it,” said Ward. “An injury happened to our starting point guard and then he got to jump in and play a larger role.”

During that freshman year, Klein was also

surounded by a large senior class. He attributes his growth and ability to adapt to the varsity level to them.

“My coaches and teammates welcomed me as soon as I joined the program as a freshman, I fed off their support,” said Klein. “They were a talented group of guys who taught me many lessons which I try to give back to the younger guys today.”

The large graduating class left Klein as one of the few former varsity players for his sophomore season. His classmates, teammates, and coaches expected a lot of him after his debut season.

“Suddenly he’s a second-year varsity guy, but still a sophomore. That year, he learned how to not just be a good player, but to deal with those expectations,” said Ward.

Klein was the star player on a team that struggled to find ways to win. The team only boasted three wins in his sophomore season, compared to the eighteen the year before.

“He was forced to be the go-to guy early in his career, as he was the best player on the team,” said Owen Klein.

This burden as an important player led Klein to put too much pressure on himself.

“He is an amazing player, but he could have relied on the team more,” said Seir. “I should have voiced that to him as a

Willard brings her love of basketball to Greenhills

captain.”

Klein has learned from his past seasons, as he leads the team in points and assists during his senior season. “[He’s] been trying to figure out how he can be a great ballplayer in scoring or not having to lead the team in scoring,” said Ward. “There’s been a lot of games this year where Finn might have only scored four points in the first half but twenty in the second, so he’s kind of figured out the time to turn it on.”

He has developed as a role model for the underclassmen.

“He sets an example by working hard every day and has matured a lot as a player since I joined the team,” said Sam Dorfman ‘23.

Klein has had a journey to the current season. The Ann Arbor Athlete of the Week award was a testament to his hard work and growth over the years, said friends and teammates.

“I’ve seen his basketball IQ grow over the years and also his work ethic,” said Owen Klein.

“He has put in the work in the weight room to become the player he is today.”

ATTACKING THE RIM Finn Klein ‘22 drives to the rim for a bucket. “My ability to attack the rim has developed from my freshman year as I’ve gotten more experience and stronger,” Klein said.

Photo Courtesy of James Schapiro

RISHI VERMA ‘23 late to them being a good coach. This does not hold true one of the best,” said Varsity women’s basketball capSports Staff for Willard. tain Georgie Branch ‘22.

Tiffany Willard, Greenhills wellness teacher, “I’ve loved having her as our coach and just 11th grade dean and physics teacher Janelle Varsity women’s basketball coach, and Varsity wom- knowing what she’s accomplished in this sport moti- Sterling is the head coach for the Varsity women’s basen’s volleyball coach have the same prerequisites as vates me to try 110% every practice,” said Varsity wom- ketball team. your normal coach. Add division 1 basketball at one en’s basketball captain Meezan Hamzavi ‘23.

“It’s been great coaching beside her and you can of the highest ranked universities in the nation and her Hamzavi wasn’t the only player to share those tell she really loves the sport and she has a deep IQ for uniqueness really begins to stand out. But now, the game,” said Sterling.

Willard has traveled the six miles from the Other than Willards success in the sport bright lights of Crisler Center to the West Gym and knowledge for the game, her character also of Greenhills. stands out to those around her.

Basketball has been a big part of Wil“She has no ego, and almost never talks lards life ever since she was young. about her success in the sport of basketball,” “I started playing in eighth grade,” said said Sterling.

Willard. “My dad told me I was getting pretty Willards humility and high-class set a great tall and gave me a basketball.” example for the student-athletes on the right Willard never looked back. way to play their sport.

“I fell in love with the sport,” said WilWillard’s experience with athletics for her enlard. “I was literally sleeping with a basketball tire life have certainly helped her become the next to me in my bed.” coach she is today.

The longer Willard played, the more the “I’ve had some really great coaches in goal of playing basketball at the collegiate level my time,” said Willard. “I want to give my stucame into sight. dents what my coaches were able to give to me, “When I got my first letter from a colto push them, but also support them as athletes lege the motivation just grew exponentially,” and as people.” said Willard. “My dad told me it would take a There was one thing however from her lot of work and dedication, but I knew what I time in college basketball that really stood out wanted,” for her.

Willards hard work and commitment to “Just the intensity of the sport in colthe sport ultimately paid off and she played baslege,” said Willard “The amount of work, from ketball at the University of Michigan from 1994 lifts to the conditioning was something else.” to 1998.

When watching the women’s Varsity Photo by Rishi Verma ‘23 College is a time of growth for many basketball team, they certainly play with a and being a student athlete took this to the next sense of urgency and intensity that you don’t level for Willard. see from all teams.

IN THE MOMENT Tiffany Willard, at left, “is an extraordinary coach and helps us stay relaxed even “I had never experienced anything like under pressure,” said Varsity Captain Meezan Hamzavi.

It was a tough year for the womit in my life,” said Willard. “I feel like I finalen’s Varsity basketball team with a record of ly grew up. It prepared me well for the stresses 4-14 but it seems playing basketball for her and challenges of the real world.” sentiments. whole life has left Willard with maturity regarding the Many who play sports understand that just be“I play a lot of High School sports and have had meaning of sports and being a coach. cause someone is a good player it doesn’t always trans- many great coaches over the years, but she’s definitely “I’m not worried about our record, or

MARCH 15, 2022

PAGE 8

Graphics by Caleb Lee ‘23

DYLAN CARVETTE ‘23 Associate Editor, Print I think Wisconsin (24-7) has a shot at winning it all. They’ve shown that they are a top 10 team in both their conference as well as the nation.

Both Johnny Davis and Brad Davison have shown that they can help lead this team to some dominant wins over top 10 teams like the Purdue Boilermakers (27-7). Both times the Badgers played Purdue, they were the lower ranked team and they ended up winning both times. The first time they matched up with the Boilermakers, Davis dropped an impressive 37 points and 14 rebounds while Davison dropped a modest 15 points and zthree rebounds. Next time the two teams matched up, Davis dropped 16 points and eight rebounds and Davison dropped seven points and four rebounds.

The Badgers do have a difficult draw being placed in the section with powerhouses such as Kansas (28-6) and Auburn (27-5), but seeing how they’ve stacked against top 10 teams

during the season, they can pull off RUKMINI NALLAMOTHU ‘22 some more upsets. Their first big oppo- Opinion Editor nent would be Auburn assuming they make it to the Sweet 16. Auburn had a For this year’s March Madness rough game recently, losing to Texas Tournament, I have the Arizona WildA&M (23-12) in the SEC Tournament cats winning it all. Though it seems semifinals. Kansas would be the next to be an obvious choice right now, it big team Wisconsin could face. Kanwasn’t one I expected to be making sas’ senior leader, Ochai Agbaji, has when the season started in the fall. been on a rampage this season, averagThis year, however, they have ing an impressive 19.7 points per game come back with full force, stronger as well as 5.1 rebounds per game. His and more hungry than ever. They matchup against Johnny Davis will be welcomed Tom Llyod for his first year a sight to see as both players have had as head coach, whose beginner’s luck extraordinary seasons. has kicked in. They are 31-3, and just Wisconsin had a rough stretch dominated the Pac-12 tournament, in their last two games of the season, coming out victorious in the finals losing to Nebraska (10-21) and Mich- against UCLA on Saturday. igan State (22-11). I think the Badgers To start off, this Arizona team will bounce back and play with even has height. With Junior Christian more determination and grit than beKoloko dominating the paint, he crefore. ates the rest of the Wildcat’s offense.

People have been underestimat- At 7’0, he averages around 12 points ing the Badgers for quite some time a game, and his presence helps create now, and I think this is the year that other opportunities for the team. Overthey prove that they are a force to be all, the Wildcats are a tall, strong team. reckoned with and will prevail in the Their strength lies in the paint, as well tournament. as their agility. From Europe, Pelle

Larson and Azuolas Tubelis are both influential players. They are quick, but tall, and can do alot with the ball. But none of this would be possible without Sophomore Bennedict Mathuren. He can do it all. His vision when looking inside and his passing game are both stellar. Feeding the height his team has with the most incredible assists. Not only that, but he is an excellent shooter and offensive threat as well, often being the teammate that regains momentum and energy to the team. With all of the pieces clicking, I know this team will do well in the tournament.

Offensively, they are well connected and work well together, playing to their strengths inside. Their agility all around allows them to play a fast game. They have been a strong and consistent team, who will definitely give teams a hard time in the tournament.

They are a patient team, who has proven that they can come back from big point deficits and frustrations.

But everyone knows that in this tournament, anything can happen.