Holy Family High School Lamp Post - Spring 2023

Lamp Post

VOL 103: NO. 1 SPRING 2023

Holy Family High School Magazine

With the help of Holy Family's Guided Studies program, Liam Gray '21 earned a spot on Coastal Carolina's Dean's List.

Holy Family Cheerleader Olivia Williams reacts to the Tigers taking the 4Q lead in the Girls Basketball 4A State Championship.

Holy Family won both the Girls and Boys 4A State Basketball Championships at the Denver Coliseum on March 11, 2023. Story on pages 22, 23.

HFHS ADMINISTRATION Matt Hauptly Mike D. Gabriel '94 Joseph Galmish '91 Mary Vulcani Ben Peterson '01

Principal Assistant Principal Dean of Students Dean of Students Athletic Director

In This Issue 3

Principal's Message

4

Student Success

5

Grandparents Breakfast

6

Mock Trial

7

Holy Family Moments

OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT Eric Nakayama '93 Director Mackenzie Altman '05 Major Gifts Monique Dominguez Alumni Relations Valerie Stozki Events

11 Fall Play

COMMUNICATIONS Jeff Beaton

21 Student Spotlight

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Matthew Hauptly Mr. Elias Moo Mr. Alex Ariniello Mr. Terry LaVelle Mrs. Ann Marie White Mrs. Jody Harper Alderman Mr. Sean Grycel Mr. John Napierkowski Mrs. Kimberly Siurek Father Jason Wallace Mr. Matt Ward '03 Mr. Federico Montoya '93

Director

16 Athletic Recap 22 Girls Basketball State Championship

Principal, President Superintendent of Catholic Schools Chairperson Vice Chair Treasurer

Notice of Student Non-Discrimination Policy The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Denver, under the jurisdiction of Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L. and at the direction of the Superintendent, state that all of their Catholic schools admit students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. Furthermore, Archdiocesan schools admit handicapped students in accord with the policy on Admissions in the Archdiocese of Denver Catholic Schools Administrator's Manual. These schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, handicap, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of their educational policies, employment practices, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic or other school-administered programs.

Assurance Statement of compliance with the purposes of Title IX Education Act The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese, under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop, and at the direction of the Superintendent, attest that none of the Catholic schools discriminates on the basis of sex in its admission policies, its treatment of students or its employment practices.

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12 Guided Studies, Liam Gray

23 Boys Basketball State Championship 24 Tiger Tales 26 Giving Societies Editor, Writer: Jeff Beaton Contributors: Ansley Schnelle '23, Jon Yunt Photography: Danielle Duran '25, Gianna Finocchiaro '26, Tamara Van Dale, Jon Yunt, Father Joe Grady, Emmy Carter, Coastal Carolina Athletics.

www.holyfamilyhs.com

Lamp Post

VOL 103: NO. 1 SPRING 2023

Holy Family High School Magazine

On The Cover: Holy Family alumnus Liam Gray '21 attempts a PAT for Coastal Carolina University in a Sept. 25, 2021, game versus UMass.

Principal's Message Holy Family Community, We are a school defined by faith and families, by greatness and tradition. This is a testament to the diverse and talented people who form the current Holy Family community and to all who came before us. Today, we are stronger and more resilient than ever. Thank you for the contributions you have made and continue to make as we forge Holy Family's bright future.

I could not be more excited and grateful to partner with such an exceptional group of educators, students, trustees, families, and alums as we usher Holy Family High School into its next 100year chapter. Please know how grateful we are for your support.

I am thrilled with the addition of Sean Grycel to the Holy Family Board of Trustees. Sean has an extensive background in education, having served the Catholic and public school systems in California for twenty-nine years as a teacher, coach, principal, and personnel director. He gained extensive experience supporting special education students, their families, and staff members. Sean has served on budget committees, negotiations teams, and leadership teams. He is currently the Executive Director of a private, non-profit foundation. Sean will focus on academic support and intervention for struggling students at Holy Family.

I hope this magazine provides a glimpse of the extraordinary accomplishments of our students, current and past. We have much to be proud of. Given our community's spirit and tenacity, I find it no surprise that our students reach such great heights. Our students are empowered by mutual support and affirmation that only comes from knowing and caring about each other.

I look forward to seeing you on campus soon.

Pax Christi, Matt Hauptly Principal Holy Family High School

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Student Success Estella Hageman – Achieved the National Speech and Debate Association’s Premier Distinction Level. She ranked 526th nationally and 15th in Colorado in all classifications.

She is the first person from Holy Family to achieve this degree of the Speech and Debate team since its inception.

She also won the 4A State Championship for International Extemporaneous Speaking.

Conor Doroff – Awarded for having the Best Opening Statement at the State Mock Trial Tournament.

Adyson Hill – Adyson is the recipient of the 2023 Sister Mary Luke Tobin SL Social Justice Award. Given annually to a Holy Family senior who has consistently echoed the cry of the poorest of our society for dignity and labored in their own way for justice and peace both inside and outside the church. The award is presented by the Sisters of Loretto, who founded Holy Family High School 100 years ago. Adyson will use the scholarship dollars that come with this award this fall at Creighton University.

Qynton Salyer – Named a Colorado Representative for YMCA National Youth Advisory Program. Qynton discussed youth-related policy issues and legislation with Members of Congress at the US Capitol in February.

Christopher Brady and Kathryne Johnson – Both were accepted in the 2023 Colorado All State Band. The All State band was created in 1952 for the purpose of providing superior students an opportunity to play with students of like ability.

Elaine Garcia – Elaine was awarded a prestigious QuestBridge Match Scholarship and will be attending Tufts University in Massachusetts. The Match Scholarship is a full four-year scholarship that covers the full cost of attendance including tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and travel expenses. She is the first known Holy Family student to receive this scholarship.

Matthew Napierkowski and Isabella Lind – were selected as Holy Family's Hugh O'Brien Youth (HOBY) Leadership Award winners.

The faculty and staff vote on this recognition given to sophomore students. They will represent Holy Family at the HOBY Leadership Conference this June.

Madeline van Orman – Madeline was recognized by the Children’s Diabetes Foundation for having completed over 500 volunteer hours of service. She has helped plan events, fundraisers and spent considerable time working with children at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes. She also started a mentor program to help teens with Type 1 diabetes.

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Erin White – Named a State of Colorado Thespian Officer. This prestigious honor is only awarded to the top 10 theater students in the state.

Honors Band – Holy Family band students, Brissa Campos-Aragon, Camden Johnson, Kyler Pavlik, Luis Romero, Else Sanchez, Sage Scalzi, and Sam Von Tersch participated in an Honors Band at CSU Pueblo. The students went through an audition process and were placed into one of four Honor Bands. 360 high school students participated.

Grandparents Breakfast We were blessed to host the annual Grandparents Breakfast on November 22, 2022. Students were able to have breakfast with their grandparents and to give them a tour of the school. Holy Family students thrive because of the support and encouragement they receive from their families. Thank you to everyone who attended this sold-out event.

Freshman Bobby Flaherty and Junior Jack Flaherty with their grandmother Nancy Anderson.

Freshman Anna Beaton with her grandfather Gary Sherrer.

Junior Charli Culp with her mother, Katie Culp, and her grandmother, Jeannie Horvat, and her cousin, Father Joe Grady.

Senior Fiona Snashall with her grandmother Karen Hurley.

Freshman Aiden Zarlengo with his grandparents, Bob and Patti Zarlengo.

Senior Ava Gryzmala and Freshman Samantha Gryzmala, with their grandparents, Bob and Jean Gryzmala.

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Mock Trial Designed to give students first-hand knowledge of civil/criminal law and courtroom procedures, Holy Family’s Mock Trial program has seen a rise in popularity in recent years.

Nearly 30 students represent two competitive teams that have enjoyed success this year at the regional and state level. Holy Family finished second at the Adams/Broomfield Regional Tournament, while several students received individual accolades. Junior Madeleine Fernandez was named Best Defense Attorney, senior Samantha Genzer was recognized as the Best Overall Witness, and junior Piper Welling and freshman Peyton Venn were each recognized for Best Witness Portrayal for their roles.

Alyson Pratkelis ‘19, who interned at the White House and the U.S. House of Representatives, and Father Joe Grady who was active in Mock Trial in high school.

At the State Tournament in March, Holy Family finished 7th, and Senior Connor Doroff was recognized with the Best Opening Statement of the tournament.

“Mock Trial allows students to expand their public speaking, writing, reading, and analytical skills while learning about the judicial system,” said Rich Everett, Holy Family Social Science Department faculty member and one of Holy Family’s four Mock Trial coaches.

“This program helps students gain skills that will serve them well in college and perhaps stimulate interest in law-related careers.”

Holy Family has an impressive group of team coaches. Everett, who spent several years of government work on Capitol Hill and the New Jersey State House, is joined by Holy Family Board of Trustee member and Partner at Alderman Bernstein law firm Jody Harper Alderman, Holy Family alumna SPRING 2023 | 6

All teams must make their presentations based on identical hypothetical case materials. The students play the role of attorneys and witnesses. To play these roles, students are introduced to life skills that will be helpful to them in the future, such as teamwork and collaboration; the value of strategic planning and implementation; productive argumentative and persuasive skills; critical thinking skills; and the ability to face challenging obstacles with professionalism and confidence.

Mock trial teams perform a case for the Prosecution/Plaintiff and/or the Defense. Usually, an actual Colorado

judge or magistrate presides over the trial round while attorneys, paralegals, and community members adjudicate the student performances.

Since 1985, the Colorado Bar Association (CBA) has sponsored the Colorado High School Mock Trial Program. It is funded by the CBA Litigation Section and the Colorado Bar Foundation and is of the country's leading and most respected programs. More than 100 high school teams and 1,500 students participate in Colorado’s mock trial program.

Holy Family Moments

Junior Zachary Hurd conducts the Holy Family Jr. Band during their Christmas concert on December 6, 2022. Created to drive enthusiasm for music for future Holy Family students, the Holy Family Junior Band is composed of local middle school students who meet weekly at Holy Family during the school year for instruction.

Class of 2022 graduate Donovan Romero-Castro surprised Guided Studies teacher Luanne Bartoletta on November 10, 2022, with the U.S. Navy’s Certificate of Appreciation. Donovan wanted to recognize Mrs. Bartoletta for her direct involvement in building his character and academic fortitude, which landed him his dream job in the world’s most advanced Navy.

Holy Family Freshman Kylee Schlepp, competing for Niwot High School Gymnastics, won the 4A State Championship in the Vault on November 5, 2022.

Senior Vanessa Arambula administers ashes to freshman Romeo Bolden on Ash Wednesday.

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Holy Family Moments

Junior Ashton Erickson receives ashes during Ash Wednesday Mass on February 22, 2023.

Several Holy Family students assisted with the Archdiocese of Denver’s Annual 5th grade Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Reception on March 24, 2023. Pictured: (front row) Dean Mary Vulcani, Madeline Wisneski, Isabella Lind, Jesus Lopez Zepeda, (back row) Sterling Smith, ElliJo Musgrove, Bishop Jorge Rodriguez, Annabelle Kenny, and Dubemchi Tetenta.

Members of the Holy Family Orchestra perform Christmas music for holiday shoppers at Broomfield’s Flatiron Crossings Mall on December 4, 2022.

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Over Christmas Break, students help remove all the old desks from classrooms. As part of the EANS funding program, Holy Family secured over 650 new collaborative work chairs and desks for our classrooms. The old desks were donated to middle schools.

Holy Family Cheerleaders react to their runner-up finish at State. Under first year head coach Alissa Gutierrez, the Tigers moved from the Game Day category to the more competitive Cheer category and captured Holy Family’s highest finish in 18 years.

Over 75 elementary and middle school girls participated in Holy Family’s Jr. Tigers Spirit Clinic in January. Future Tigers learned dance technique and a routine from Poms team members and cheers and stunting basics from the Cheer team.

In December, members of Mr. Havey’s Faith in Action class dropped off a large supply of diapers that were collected for Marisol Health.

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Holy Family Moments

Congratulations to AP Government teacher Mrs. Waples and Latin teacher Dr. Gumerlock for their recently published books. Mrs. Waples wrote the textbook, Comparative Government: Stories of the World.

Dr. Gumerlock’s wrote, Cassiodorus, St. Gregory the Great, and Anonymous Greek Scholia. Writings on the Apocalypse.

Sophomores Claire Hulquest and ElliJo Musgrove enjoy a donut as we celebrated our students during Catholic Schools Week. Faculty and staff handed out donuts to students as they arrived for classes on January 31, 2023.

Don’t argue with this referee. Holy Family’s favorite referee returned on January 26, 2023, when the Tigers hosted Windsor.

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Holy Family Theatre Sense & Sensibility Holy Family Theater’s cast of Sense & Sensibility delighted audiences with five incredible performances. The 33 students who comprised the cast and crew beautifully delivered the story of drama, love, and betrayal. The production was directed by Rebecca Barger and was assisted by Clare Nowak.

Don’t miss Holy Family’s upcoming spring musical Mary Poppins, which takes the stage April 26 – 30.

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Liam Gray's Journey in Guided Studies As a division 1 collegiate athlete, Liam Gray has little downtime. In addition to his academics, he must also navigate a rigorous athletic schedule.

There are moments, though, when he tries to take it all in. After all, he’s a redshirt sophomore football player for the teal-clad Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, a team that has won 31 games over the past three seasons and has been ranked as high as 9th in the AP Top 25 poll. Their rapid, successful evolution as a program has resulted in their games now regularly shown in primetime on ESPN.

Last season, Gray was named to the College Football Network’s All-Sun Belt Conference second team as a kickoff specialist. He sets his sights on adding the team’s place-kicking duties to his role as the Chanticleers head into spring camp.

Gray was a weapon on the field at Holy Family as a wide receiver, punter, and placekicker. He was a first-team all-state selection in 2020 and followed that up by being named as a BoCo Preps first-team selection and the Special Teams Player of the Year in 2021.

His booming right leg landed him as a 5-star kicking prospect in the Class of 2021 recruiting class.

But it wasn’t until he found out that he was named to Coastal Carolina University’s Dean’s List his freshman year that he really stopped and reflected upon his journey. While his athletic successes are well chronicled and seen by many, Liam was equally dedicated to his academic pursuits – something that never came easy for him.

“Seeing my name on the Dean’s List meant that I wasn’t cruising through college just trying not to fail, but I was excelling with the techniques I learned in the Guided Studies program at Holy Family,” he said.

When Gray enrolled at Holy Family as a freshman, he was a little nervous about how he would fare with the academic rigor he saw his older sister Morgan (Class of 2016) go through, a feeling shared by his parents, Jennifer and Bill.

Gray warms up before the Tigers home playoff game against Durango on November 28, 2020.

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“Our daughter Morgan was very successful at Holy Family. But she and Liam are two very different learners,” Jennifer said. “As early as second grade,

Coastal Carolina Kicker Liam Gray poses at the team's media day.

Liam struggled a bit in school. His thirdgrade teacher mentioned ADHD, and from that point, it was always in the back of my mind. He is such a sweet, gentle, and kind child. He just couldn’t focus on his school work.”

Liam struggled academically during his first semester at Holy Family, and the Grays were introduced to Holy Family’s Guided Studies program led by Luanne Bartoletta. Guided Studies assists students with learning differences to become effective learners. Eligibility for this program is based on one or more of the following criteria: IEP, 504 Plan, Service Plan, high school placement test scores, transcripts, and diagnosed learning differences.

Liam began working with Mrs. Bartoletta, and Jennifer began to see changes in her son. “Mrs. Bartoletta brought so much calm to Liam. She suggested we have him tested for ADHD, and he indeed had it,” she said. “She worked with Liam to help him understand his struggles and gave him the grace to process them with her. She is an angel sent from above.”

planner person until she began working with me. She would check my planner weekly, and I initially thought it wasn’t a big deal. But now, I see how that organizational skill is helping me in college.”

“Mrs. Bartoletta was crucial to my academics and helped me figure out how to stay focused on work, study, and plan my week accordingly,” Liam adds. “She helped me work through things I struggled at. She wanted me to be engaged in my education, and I embraced it. She helped give me a new mindset as it related to school and my grades.”

Holy Family Guided Studies teacher Luanne Bartoletta working with students.

“At first, I kept the fact that I was in Guided Studies a secret, so I wasn’t seen as different,” Liam recalls. “Later on, I realized there is no reason to be ashamed of it because I was getting the help I needed to succeed.”

Accommodations typically provided to students in Guided Studies can include allowing extra time on tests, having tests read aloud, and taking tests in a comfortable environment like the Guided Studies room.

Guided Studies helps students become active learners by focusing on time management, organization, study, test-taking, note-taking, long- and short-term memory retrieval, and critical thinking skills.

“It’s easy to say a student needs to improve, but the real challenge comes with understanding their individual needs, having them become accountable and collectively working to improve,” Bartoletta explains. “These students are given individualized support to advance their academic performance.

We aim to have them build their skillset, so they eventually move on from the program.”

“For kids who’ve felt like a square peg in a round hole at school, being surrounded by people who understand and are willing to accommodate them can be a huge relief,” said Bartoletta.

“We are responsible for knowing the students’ strengths, weaknesses, and any accommodations needed.”

“One of the main things Mrs. Bartoletta talked about with me was using a planner,” Liam said. “I was never really a

“Graduating from Holy Family was a huge deal for me. I never really noticed it until my first semester of college when I realized how much Holy Family and Guided Studies had prepared me for my future. I still struggle with ADHD, and habits that I created at Holy Family continue to help me today.”

Liam Gray prepares to walk onto the stage to receive his diploma at the Class of 2021 Commencement Ceremony.

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Liam Gray's Journey in Guided Studies I see a lot of students on campus here who struggle and talk about how hard college is. Some have even dropped out,” Liam said. “I believe that Holy Family is phenomenal at preparing students to succeed in college.”

Liam has advice for students in Guided Studies. “You need to realize that you are not alone in the program, and you should not see it as a punishment but as a way to excel in the classroom.”

“As a Holy Family parent, I sat on two panels for a Holy Family Information Night event geared to middle schoolparents,” Jennifer said. “I told the parents not every kid attending Holy Family has a full slate of AP classes. I talked about Liam. He was well-known and well-liked. You would expect him to have it all together, but the reality is people only see what they want to see.

I made a point to let the potential Holy

Gray celebrates a 46-yd field goal vs. University of Louisiana-Monroe on October 2, 2021.

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Family parents know the school works with students to make them successful, even though some need extra help. I had parents come to me afterward and thank me for saying that.”

Liam, who was also named to the 2022 CSC Academic All-District Football team, often thinks about all the different people who have influenced him and how his actions have taken him to where he is today.

Gray boards the team plane as they travel to Atlanta to play Georgia St. on September 21, 2022.

“I don’t know if I’d be where I am without my relationships with Mrs. Bartoletta, Mr. Brothers, Mr. Bishop, Mr. Grable, and Mr. Gabriel,” he said. “As I think about it, all of my teachers at Holy Family left such a positive impression on me. They all helped me realize I don’t have to be a C-average student.

I can be an A student.”

The Gray family; Bill, Liam, and Jennifer.

“Words couldn’t describe how motivating it was to hear about Liam’s success,” said Bartoletta. “He really took accountability for his academics and worked so hard. When I first met him, he lacked self-confidence in the classroom. He didn’t trust himself and his capabilities. It was much different than how he was on the football field. Students like Liam embody both struggle and success, which is a source of inspiration for all students to keep achieving from wherever they are on their personal and academic journeys.”

“I’m proud of myself not just because I made the Dean’s List, but more because of how hard I worked,” Liam said. “With the help of Guided Studies at Holy Family, I learned what worked for me, and now those study habits will last forever.”

Gray signs autographs for young Chanticleer fans.

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ATHLETICS RECAP

FOOTBALL

Head Coach: Mike D. Gabriel • Finished the season 7-4 (4-1 in 3A League 5, 2nd place).

• Qualified for the Class 3A State Tournament as the No. 7 seed; lost to No. 10 George Washington 38-24 in the first round.

• Three Tigers made the All-State Honorable Mention list: QB Rylan Cooney, RB Chase McNaughton, and OL/DT Angelo O'Dorisio.

• A total of 22 Tigers were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Nic Christoff, Giacomo Frank, Chase McNaughton, Roman Olsen, Brandon Aitken, Brayden Bach, Rylan Cooney, Ashton Erickson, Chris Johnnides, Keenan Krick, Mark Mollendor, Johnny Nguyen, Steven Nguyen, Angelo O’Dorisio, Trevor Stevens, Henry Szymanski, Noah Gochenour, Anderson Osburn, Matt Sakkaris, Monte Samaras, Dutch Van Dale, and Brendan Ward.

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SOFTBALL

Head Coach: Moriah Nguyen • Finished the season 24-5 (6-0 in the NCAC, League Champions).

• Regional Champions and were seeded No. 2 at State; they made it all the way to the 4A title game and lost to top-seeded Lutheran 3-0.

• Sophomore pitcher Izzy Arroyo (NCAC Player of the Year) was named 1st team All-State and SS Danielle Duran, 2B Kaylee McDonald and C Makaila Moosbrugger were Honorable Mention selections.

• Eight players were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Izzy Arroyo, Brissa Campos, Danielle Duran, Kaylee McDonald, Makaila Moosbrugger, Katelyn Morris, Sierra Nanez, and Tea Whitlock.

VOLLEYBALL

Head Coach: Jenna Gallas • Finished the season 17-8 (6-1 in the NCAC, runners-up) • The team was led by captains Morgan Anderson and Megan Gonzales.

• Holy Family was one of 12 regional tournament hosts - winning their first match, then were defeated by Palisade in the regional championship.

• Junior Delaney Watson earned All-State Honorable Mention honors.

Senior Morgan Anderson and Junior Ava Olsen, along with Watson, were named 1st Team All-Conference.

• Eight players were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Morgan Anderson, Jessica Eldridge, Addison Gromko, Kaila McCracken, Ava Olsen, Emily Powell, Alyssa Spinuzzi, and Delaney Watson.

BOYS SOCCER

Head Coach: David Martinez • Finished the season 4-9-3 (4-2-1 in the NCAC, tied for 3rd) • Made the Class 4A state tournament as a No. 30 seed. They would lose 1-0 in OT at Cheyenne Mountain.

• Led by captains Jack Krueger, Abel Robles, and Zach Taylor.

• The Tigers had four players earn 1st Team NCAC honors: Jack Krueger, Matt Napierkowski, Abel Robles, and Zach Taylor.

• Seven players were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Stefano Curto, Jack Krueger, Witt Luoma, Matt Napierkowski, Abel Robles, Zach Taylor, and Dubemchi Tetenta.

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BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Head Coach: Isaiah Remington

• Finished 1st at Regionals and 8th at State.

• Had numerous top five finishes throughout the regular season.

• The team was led by captains Anthony Haberkorn, Patrick Cavanaugh, and Gabriel Martinez.

• Senior Anthony Haberkorn was named All-State Honorable Mention.

• Nine runners were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Joe Brienza, Patrick Cavanaugh, Anthony Haberkorn, Max Johnson, Gabriel Martinez, Andrew Meyers, Parker Nelson, Sterling Smith, and Gabe Tyler.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Head Coach: Isaiah Remington

• Finished 1st at Regionals and 3rd at State.

• Won the season opening Windsor Invitational and had numerous top five finishes throughout the regular season.

• The team was led by captains Emmy Stoll, Katherine Ryan, and Summer Norwell.

• Sophomore Anabella Descalzo was named All-State Honorable Mention.

• Five runners were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Olivia Bertagnolli, Anabella Descalzo, Summer Norwell, Katherine Ryan, and Emmy Stoll.

BOYS GOLF

Head Coach: Will Wilson • Finished as runners-up at the Class 3A Region 3 tournament in Greeley to qualify for the State Tournament.

• Led by junior Rudi Heitz's 4th place individual effort, the Tigers finished 9th at State. Fellow juniors Drake Krommenhoek (29th), Wiley St. Germain (55th) and Ty Bairrington (56th) also competed at State.

• Heitz was named 1st Team All-State and Krommenhoek earned Honorable Mention honors.

• Six golfers were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Ty Bairrington, Drew Federspiel, Charlie Gustafson, Rudi Heitz, Drake Kommenhoek, and Wiley St. Germain.

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CHEER

Head Coach: Alissa Gutierrez • The Tigers finished 2nd at State, won the NCAC League Championship, and finished 5th at the UDA Mile High Regional.

• The team was led by four team captains: Grace Carlon, Clare Sullivan, Madeline Van Orman, and Matilda Warner.

• 7 cheerleaders were named UCA All-Americans: Ashleigh Ancheril, Grace Carlon, Adyson Hill, Sophia Mazzula, Madeline Van Orman, Matilda Warner, and Olivia Williams.

• 11 cheerleaders were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Ashleigh Ancheril, Grace Carlon, Marissa Gray, Adyson Hill, Claire Hulquest, Clare Sullivan, Sophia Tyler, Madeline Van Orman, Matilda Warner, Olivia Williams, and Ivy Wood.

POMS

Head Coach: Chelsea Incorvaia • In their first season as a varsity sport at Holy Family, the Tigers finished 3rd at State, won the NCAC League Championship, finished 3rd in hip hop at the UDA Mile High Regional, and 1st in hip hop & 2nd in pom at the DTU Regional.

• The team earned an invitation to UDA Nationals in Orlando where they finished 16th in game day, 29th in hip hop, and 34th in poms.

• The team was led by UDA All-Americans and team captains: Maggie Mischker, Moriah Montoya, Victoria Peterson, and Kristi Torczynski.

• Six pom dancers were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Anna Beaton, Maggie Mischker, Jenna Murrow, Nikki Peterson, Victoria Peterson and Kristi Torczynski.

WRESTLING

Head Coach: Ernie Derrera • Holy Family finished 3rd at the 3A Region 3 meet and sent five wrestlers to State: Lorenzo Avila 120 lbs. (Regional Champion), Brayden Bach 138 lbs., Jonathan Aiello 144 lbs., Camden Austin 190 lbs., and Abram Moore 215 lbs. (Regional Champion).

• Both Brayden Bach (4th at 138 pounds) and Abram Moore (2nd at 215 pounds) landed on the podium at Ball Arena and earned All-State honors.

• Seven wrestlers were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Brayden Bach, Ashton Erickson, Noah Gochenour, Cash Hauptmann, Angelo O'Dorisio, Anderson Osburn, and Dustin Pedro.

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GIRLS SWIM & DIVE

Head Coach: Mary Whitney

• In the competitive NCAC, the Tigers finished 5th overall and also finished 5th at the Class 3A State Meet.

• The Tigers qualified a total of 13 swimmers for state, led by freshman Lorelai Frauenfelder. She finished 2nd in the 100 freestyle and 4th in the 200 IM. • 20 swimmers were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Ashtyn Cooney, Sheridan Darschewski, Lorelai Frauenfelder, Madilyn Gemperline, Sophie Gremillion, Ava Hofmann, Kathryne Johnson, Isabella Larry, Macie McCormick, Ballie McIntosh, MacKenzie McIntosh, Makaila Moosbrugger, ElliJo Musgrove, Summer Norwell, Raelynn Pickup, Grace Roberts, Annabelle Rodriguez, Madelyn Szabo, Ivy Wood, and Emily Woods.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Head Coach: Pete Villecco

• Finished the season 17-11 (6-8 in the NCAC); won the Class 4A state title over Resurrection Christian.

• The Tigers were led by their Leadership Group: Rocco Bridges, Grayden Harkness, Ben Harste, and Eric Quintana.

• Three players earned All-Conference honors: Rocco Bridges (1st Team), Eric Quintana (1st Team), and Joseph Portillo (Honorable Mention).

• Eric Quintana was named the 4A Player of the Year and was joined on the First Team All-State list by Rocco Bridges. Head Coach Pete Villecco was named 4A Coach of the Year.

• Four members of the boys basketball program were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Matthew Napierkowski, Caleb Schott, team manager Qynton Salyer, and team manager Max Schlarbaum.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Head Coach: Ron Rossi

• Finished the season 25-3 (13-1 in the NCAC, co-champions); won the Class 4A state title over D'Evelyn.

• Holy Family was led by team captains Essynce Contreraz, Fiona Snashall, and Mariah Quintana.

• Fiona Snashall and Essynce Contreraz were both named First Team All-State selections. Julia Hodell was Second Team All-State.

• Coach Ron Rossi earned his seventh outright state title and his first in Class 4A. • Eight players were named 1st Team Academic All-State: Jennifer Altshuler, Sawyer Dana, Julia Hodell, Annabelle Kenny, Rosario Portillo, Mariah Quintana, Sarah Vail, and Gracie Ward.

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Student Spotlight

Finn Mutuc '25

by Ansley Schnelle '23

It's no secret that Holy Family is filled with talented athletes from a long list of sports. This year, sophomore Finn Mutuc has added ski racing to that list.

Discovering his passion for the sport at a young age, Mutuc grew up on skis while testing his skills in the Colorado mountains. "I started skiing at Eldora in the Eldorables program when I was five.

Then came the Trek program, and after that, I joined the Eldora Mountain Ski Club, where I really learned to race," he says.

His love for the sport eventually evolved into years of competitive skiing and impressive accomplishments, including qualifying for the Colorado Junior Ski Championships as an eighth grader.

Before coming to Holy Family, Finn attended middle school at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Boulder. Finding the balance between the rigors of a Holy Family education with frequent trips to the mountains for training runs can be challenging, but Mutuc has handled it well.

Mutuc competes in the Slalom and Giant Slalom during the high school season. He also excels at the Super G, an event not offered at high school races.

"I love going fast, but at the same time, I love how technical it is," he said.

Mutuc joined the Nederland High School Ski Team this year after playing basketball at Holy Family during his first year. Nederland High School competes against Aspen, Vail, Durango, Winter

Park, Steamboat, and Summit County teams.

His successful ski season ended on a high note when he placed 19th in the Slalom at the Colorado High School Ski League State Championships.

"Racing against kids that live in the mountains and finishing in the top 20 felt good," he says. Still an underclassman, Mutuc has plenty of time left in his high school ski career and has set lofty goals. "Next year, I want to go to state and hopefully nationals after," he adds.

With many races ahead, he will have many more exciting racing experiences and accomplishments coming his way.

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Congratulations Girls Basketball 4A State Champions The Holy Family girls basketball team rallied in the second half against unbeaten D’Evelyn to claim the Class 4A State Championship. It was the 7th state title for the program and their first in the 4A classification.

Senior Fiona Snashall took over the game in the fourth quarter, scoring eight of her team-high 14 points, and the team’s trademark defense tightened up in the closing minutes.

Snashall, junior Julia Hodell and junior Essynce Contreraz combined for 30 points in a victory that felt like it was a long time coming for this group.

Photo Courtesy of CHSAA.

“It feels amazing,” Contreraz said while cradling the 4A trophy with both arms on the court after the victory. “The coaching staff we have and the girls we have, you can’t find that anywhere.”

“We wanted to make our mark at Holy Family. That is what we did,” Snashall said. “Our motto this whole year was ‘one more’. We needed one more final push in the second half to take over.”

Freshman Enyiah Contreraz puts up a three pointer in the championship game.

The Tigers finished the season 25-3.

Holy Family Head Coach Ron Rossi.

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Photo Courtesy of Brad Cochi.

Junior Sawyer Dana celebrates the Final Four victory over Lutheran.

Congratulations Boys Basketball 4A State Champions It was nine years ago in Colorado Springs that the Holy Family basketball teams pulled off one of the rare doubles in high school sports by winning both the boys and girls Class 3A titles on the same night.

Resurrection Christian. Holy Family (17-11), became the first No. 17-seed to ever win a Colorado state title.

Fast forward to a Saturday afternoon at the Denver Coliseum, and after the girls already held up their end of the bargain, the No. 17 seed Holy Family boys team took to the court trying to repeat history. Mission accomplished.

“This season had a lot of highs and lows,” said senior Rocco Bridges, who scored nine points to secure the Tigers first ever Class 4A title and second overall. “When we stick together and we play for each other, we knew we were going to win this whole thing.

Even as a No. 17 seed, we were confident coming into this tournament.”

The boys made a stunning run through the Class 4A tournament that culminated with a 53-43 victory over No. 2

“Our strength is in our entire crew,” head coach Pete Villecco said. “We don’t have a guy who’s going to go out

and get 20 or 25, but for us, it’s collective, it’s about the unit.”

Villecco was quick to thank girls coach Ron Rossi and his girls team, saying, “When they won, he came to me and said ‘It’s your turn coach.’ It brought back those memories from nine years ago.”

Head Coach Pete Villecco as the Tigers defeat No. 1 Kent during their march to the state title.

Photo Courtesy of CHSAA. Senior Eric Quintana drives in the championship game vs. Resurrection Christian.

Senior Grayden Harkness, junior Jayden Watts, junior Joseph Portillo, and senior team manager Max Schlarbaum celebrate.

Junior Jaxon Grable, senior Ben Harste, and senior Joey Coan react as the Tigers win to advance to the state title game.

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Tiger Tales Tiger Cubs

Brooke (Borer) Midanier ‘10 and her husband, Christopher, welcomed Layla Kait Midanier on March 9, 2022.

Molly (Seaman) Johnson ‘14 and David Johnson ‘14 welcomed their daughter, Juliette Rose Johnson, on March 28, 2022.

Jose Martinez ‘14 and his wife, Mayra, welcomed their daughter, Alessandra Sofia Martinez, on May 17, 2022.

Alex Chopyak ‘12 and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their daughter, Demetria Elizabeth Chopyak, on June 17, 2022.

Christine (Wasserman) Young ‘09 and her husband, Tyler, welcomed their first child, Chantelle Bevan-Marie, on December 9, 2021.

Taylor (Helbig) Spurgeon ‘11 and her husband, Cole, welcomed their daughter, Rowyn Gray Spurgeon, in May 2022.

Moriah (Turney) Nguyen ‘13 and her husband, Brandon Nguyen welcomed daughter, Lilyana Elissa Nguyen, on August 16, 2022.

Taylor (Johnson) Mansfield ‘15 and her husband, Averie, welcomed their son, Levi, on July 29, 2022.

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Tiger Weddings

Morgan Gray ‘16 and McCann Mellett were married on July 30, 2021.

In Memoriam Casey Griggs ‘17 and Michael Zeman ’17 were married on May 27, 2022.

Sarah Talamantes ‘11 and David Reed were married on July 29, 2022. Sarah and David met while attending medical school at Northwestern University and are now physicians at Stanford University.

Craig "Lefty" Harris Lefty was a familiar face around the school as all four of his children graduated from Holy Family: Craig Jr. ’07, Sarah ’09, Nick ’13, and Elizabeth ’15. Many also know Lefty as the owner of Lefty's Gourmet Pizza & Ice Cream in Niwot.

Jordan Weaver ‘11 and Morgan Helm were married on May 27, 2022.

Autumn Lujan McGoff ‘95 and Damien McGoff ‘95 celebrated their 25th Anniversary on June 14, 2022.

Tell Us Your Tiger Tale!

Calling All Alumni: Send us your news (with photos, if possible) about weddings, births, new jobs, promotions, retirements, and awards – or whatever you’re celebrating – so we can share your accomplishments with our community! If you have moved, please let us know so we can update our records. Please send information one of these 2 ways:

Email: Monique.Dominguez@holyfamilyhs.com Phone:303.410.1411, ext. 130

Brian Torczynski ’08 Brian and 3 of his siblings, Kelly '07, Brandon '11, and Kelsie '16, graduated from Holy Family. His youngest sister, Kristi, is in the Class of 2023.

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Giving Societies Holy Family Giving Societies and Gift Circles are comprised of benefactors who display exceptional interest in the advancement of the school by virtue of their gifts of $100 or more. These groups recognize the financial stewardship of many members in our community who support the school’s operating and capital needs through annual gifts. Their generosity serves as an inspiration and contributions at all levels are greatly appreciated.

Sisters of Loretto Society ($50,000 and above) In 1920, the five Sisters of Loretto who arrived in north Denver and began the school built the foundation and core values that are represented in today’s Mission Statement. Giving at this level would typically be allocated for capital improvements or endowed scholarships. Many of these gifts originate from thoughtful estate planning or a special bequest.

1922 Society ($22,000-$49,999) From humble beginnings in 1922 with thirty students in north Denver to a thriving campus today in Broomfield, Holy Family continues to serve families across the front range. Holy Family is committed to building on past traditions while also looking forward. Members of the 1922 Society are committed to a rigorous, college-prep, Catholic education and the lifelong lessons it provides.

Reverend Cornelius O’Farrell Society ($10,000-$21,999) Pastor from 1919 to 1923, Reverend Cornelius O’Farrell began building a school on the south side of Holy Family Catholic Church located on 43rd and Utica. In 1922, 30 students enrolled, inaugurating what has become Holy Family High School. Members in the

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Rev. Cornelius O’Farrell Society demonstrate exceptional generosity in supporting our strategic goals.

Leadership Society ($5,000-$9,999) As a community of parents, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, friends and benefactors all coming together to accomplish a common purpose, we strive to build a strong Catholic community dedicated to excellence in education of the whole person and service through our faith. Giving at this level helps to sustain our legacy and ensure a bright future.

Champions in Mission Circle ($2,500-$4,999) Based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, Holy Family seeks to provide a Catholic learning environment that stresses academic excellence, fosters mutual respect, demands responsibility, and encourages self-growth. Members in this society fervently support and uphold this mission.

Holy Family Circle ($1,000-$2,499) Just as St. Joseph guided and protected the Holy Family, those who support our vision and mission help Holy Family High School achieve success. Gifts at this level help Holy Family to provide our students with the tools they need

to succeed spiritually, intellectually, and physically on a daily basis.

Purple and Gold Circle ($500-$999) The color purple represents ambition, wisdom, dignity, devotion, and pride.

The color gold evokes generosity, compassion, courage, and confidence.

Members in this society are honored to support the purple and gold of Holy Family.

Tiger Pride Circle ($250-$499) Tigers are powerful animals that represent strength, fortitude, and perseverance. Every fan of Holy Family knows the pride and tradition our Tigers carry with them. Traditions established at 4343 Utica St. are continued today wherever a Tiger competes—in the classroom, on the field, and beyond.

Family Friend Circle ($100-$249) Holy Family has been a family of faith since 1922. Family matters—and your heartfelt financial support is necessary for us to continue to fulfill our mission and properly serve today's student body.

Contact Eric Nakayama, Director of Advancement, 303-410-1411, ext. 129, to further discuss Holy Family Giving Societies.

See YOU

THERE! June 8

May 18

Graduation

June 9 TopGolf

Hall of Honor

June 10

Golf Classic

June 10

Tennis Classic

Learn more at www.holyfamilyhs.com

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HOLY FAMILY HIGH SCHOOL

Educating the Whole Person: SPIRIT, MIND and BODY

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