Andalusian Volume 22 Issue 1

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

Village Pizza And Pasta Proudly Supports The Maclay Andalusian!

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

Welcome back Maclay school!

As your new Editor in Cheifs of The Andalusian, we hope you had a great summer. Our hopes for the 2022 to 2023 school year are to provide a faster, more convienent and improved website to keep all students up to date on the latest news. For our print releases, our goal is to improve student interaction and encourage students to become interested in journalism. Ms. Callaway’s door is always open for any students that show any interest in newspaper. In our first issue as Editor in Cheifs our main theme was centered around coming back to school without the fear of COVID. As seniors, this is our first full normal year of high school since our freshman year with all traditions returning. As we are excited that all of these traditions are returning in full swing, we hope to cover and report each and every event at your convenience. To highlight, we are the already the only class

that has experienced the first back to school dance and convocation since 2019. With our first print being released for the 2022 to 2023 school year, we hope to give all students a fun, entertaining and informative back to school issue. We would love to recieve feedback on our work and would be open for suggestions on any opinions you have. We would like to give thanks to Charles Beamer and all of the faculty who continue to provide numerous amounts of support and encouragment to the Andalusian. Finally, we hope you enjoy our first back to school issue for the new year!

sincerely,

RJ Hosay and Merrell Webster

STAFF LIST

ADVISER

Cailyn Callaway

EDITOR IN CHIEF’S

Merrell Webster

RJ Hosay

MANAGING EDITORS

Kate Bulloch

Meghan Goletz

GENERAL EDITORS

Kate Bulloch

Meghan Goletz

Julia Luck

SPORTS EDITOR

Sawyer Davis

MARKETING

Kate Bulloch

Meghan Goletz

BUSINESS

Jaclyn Summers

IN THIS ISSUE

FOLLOW

STAFF WRITERS

Aidenn Hafez

Payton Bundy

Sara Mnookin

Vine Butler

Leah Song

Mary Kate Kise

Leah Kiros

Efrem Rosenberg

Elizabeth Bodiford

Anna Grace Proctor

SPORTS WRITERS

Jaclyn Summers

Meg Howell

Zach Lowe

PHOTOGRAPHY

Katelyn Eldred

DESIGN

Kate Bulloch

Meghan Goletz

Merrell Webster

@maclayandalusian

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SCAN HERE TO READ THE LATEST ANDLAUSIAN ARTICLES. UPDATED DAILY.

ON THE COVER

EDITORIAL POLICY

Articles published as an editorial reflect the opinions of the Andalusian staff. Each editorial is approved by the standing editorial board and must receive a majority vote before it can be published as reflecting the views of the publication. The 2022-23 Editorial Board consists of Editor-In-Chiefs RJ Hosay and Merrell Webster, Managing Editors Kate Bulloch and Meghan Goletz, General Editors Meghan Goletz, Kate Bulloch and Julia Luck, Sports Editor Sawyer Davis, Business Manager Jaclyn Summers and Adviser Cailyn Callaway.

ALL SMILES. Senior Evan Brown leads the procession of seniors accompanied by their first and second grade buddies at Maclay’s annual convocation. This marks the first Convocation back together since 2019, and is the official welcome to the new year.

NEWS SPOTLIGHT

LOCAL

ELLIANOS COFFEE DRIVE-THRU OPENING

Bringinga hint of Italy to Tallahassee, Ellianos Coffee Shop opened July 29, 2022 on Kerry Forrest Parkway. The coffee shop offers a variety of treats and drinks along with the convenience of a drive-thru. Italian inspired coffee will be offered along with the other smoothies, teas and energy drinks on the menu. Some of their signature creations consist of the Milan Mint Mocha, the Tuscany Coffee and the Sicilian Smoothie.

NATIONAL BANANA BOAT SUNSCREEN RECALL

Summerin the United States took a toxic turn when Edgewell, the producers of the sunscreen, “Banana Boat” found benzene in their sunscreen. This toxin is known to cause lethal blood disorders and cancers. Benzene was located in the spray nozzle of many different cans, landing on individuals upon use. Despite the future expiration dates found on the containers, this deadly human carcinogen have been located inside. Some safe and non-toxic sunscreen brands include Attitude, All Good, Beauty By Earth and Badger Balm.

ONE SCHOOL

FACULTY ART GALLERY EXHIBIT OPENING

Onefinal hoorah of the summer for faulty and teachers took place in the Beck Family Innovation Center (BFIC) on Aug. 3 2022. This event was an art gallery filled with art created by Maclay’s own faculty and staff. Drinks and dinner were served to all the members of the Maclay community while they observed and admired the artwork. Everyone gathered in the Cartee Gym to eat dinner around the provided tables. This event allowed for the teachers and faculty to put their artwork on display and celebrate their talents. “I think the best part was honestly seeing all the hidden talents from my co workers,” featured teacher and artist Kaitlyn Dressel said. “It was really awesome. The best part for me was just seeing what all the teachers could make. For example, Hannah Nalls (first grade teacher), I desperately tried to bribe her because I wanted one of her baskets so bad.”

FEATURED ART AND PHOTOS FROM FACULTY ART GALLERY EXHIBIT OPENING

Gazing in Awe. Multiple teachers gathered in the Langford Hallway to share and talk about the art created by themselves and fellow facutly members.

Buddies 4 Life.

Coach Andy Surratt and Computer Science/ Engineerare teacher and coach

Joe Kupiszewsi are enjoying their time together as they walk around the art exhibit.

U

C O M I N G U P C O M I N G

E V E N T S E V E N T S

First Marauder pep rally of the year! Featuring fall sports activities and a performance from the Maclay Varsity Cheer team

Marauder football team takes on Wewahitchka at their first away game at 7:30p m

Lady Marauder's first home volleyball game. JV @ 4:00p.m. and Varsity @5:00p m

Say cheese for this year's school photos! Pictures will take place in Cartee Gym 7:15a.m.- 3:00p.m.

The Varsity football team will play their first home game against Brookwood at the annual black-out game at 7:30 p m

Spend

Monday the 5th celebrating our American workers

Prized Possesion. Out of 50 art pieces, this one was created by art teacher Katelyn Dressel to remain displayed on the wall in Langford Hall for all to see and enjoy.

Maclay Glory. Study Hall teacher Kyle Maurey is busy painting her artwork of Maclay as her fellow teachers are amazed by her painting.

Photos By RJ Hosay

Design By Kate Bulloch

FED UP WITH FLEX

MACLAY ADMINISRATION IMPLEMENTS NEW FLEX POLICIES FOR THE 2022-2023 ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR

BY AIDENN HAFEZ

Flexing out- think again. Maclay upper school implemented new Flex policies for the 2022-23 school year. These policies went into effect on the first day of school and were reviewed with students during Homeroom on Aug. 11 and Aug. 12. This year, juniors and seniors are to stay on campus for Flex unless they have completed the “Flex out form” outlining a legitimate reason to “Flex out.” The biggest change comes to freshmen and sophomores who are required to stay on campus every Flex and attend Freshman and Sophomore Academies during the first Flex of the week. These changes come as the upper school looks to return to normalcy following the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the last two school years. Pre-pandemic, Flex was established as a time for students to meet with teachers, work on class assignments and group projects, enroll in enrichment courses, participate in sports practices and/or to flex out for internships or student jobs. During the pandemic though, Flex’s purpose shifted allowing students to leave campus during this time to limit student numbers on campus. Students have become accustomed to this freedom, but the administration wants to stress the importance of returning to utilizing this period productively.

“While we all know everyone needs some downtime, the

80 minute block after a 30 plus minute lunch should be used by students to make the most of their upper school experience,” Dean of Upper School Student Affairs, Heather Bas said. “Since everyone is different, students can use that time that best fits their needs. Hopefully, this time will allow for quality time once at home, having taken advantage of this time afforded to them in the schedule.”

To make the most of this time, students are encouraged to use it as originally intended- as study time and to further enrich their academic pursuits. In order to achieve this, Maclay will be offering numerous enrichment courses, some examples include SAT Prep, Architecture, Journalism 1 and a Plagiarism Workshop. MARC services will also be open for students to meet with faculty and peer tutors. On top of these opportunities, there will also be new Intramural Sports run by Head Cheer Coach Mr. Ryan Kline.

Faculty members are excited for these opportunities offered to students as they look to encourage utilizing inschool hours as opposed to at home.

“I do believe these changes are necessary,” Spanish teacher Joseph McCann

said. “ I believe this privilege has been abused by most students who simply wish to leave at lunch. School ends at 3:00, and unless a student has a job or internship, I believe the baseline expectation of a student is to be at school. As a student who worked through high school and college, this is a privilege that should be afforded to the students who use it for its intended purpose. However, the original intent of Flex has been tainted by those who wish to take advantage of it.”

Some students, however, have a differing perspective.

“I believe that I will not be able to accomplish more schoolwork with this new policy because I focus better when I am at home in my own space,” sophomore Lauren Guyer said. “I learn and understand better when I am in the comfort of my room.”

Upperclassmen are still allowed to “flex out” and leave campus as long as there are no mandatory Flex activities during this time. Freshmen and sophomores will be attending Freshmen and Sophomore Academies on the first Flex of each week. These academies are to help

students acclimate to the upper school and explore interests. On the other Flex days, freshmen and sophomore students will be expected to stay on campus; however, the permission to ‘flex out” can be given with administration approval. Every grade level student must participate in occasional Flex activities and therefore cannot “Flex out” on days with the mandatory activities. Moreover, students will need to adjust to staying on campus for Flex more often than last year.

“For me this new Flex policy will affect me mostly during my soccer and lacrosse seasons,” senior Kate Kupiszewksi said. “On days which I’m required to stay for Flex, I will not have time to go home and get ready for practices. I would have to bring all of my practice gear to school along with my backpack, which is a lot to carry and to have ready each day. I think it will affect my teammates in the same way and might make us late to practice more often.”

Starting in September, students can see the calendar for all Flex activities. This will be located in Enews. The “Flex out” form can be found on the FACTS Family Portal.

*174 students surveyed

BY LEAH KIROS

Typically used for sporting events or the occasional pep rally, the Webster gym was embellished with a piano, stage and added seats to prepare for bringing back an annual tradition. On Aug. 12, 2022, Maclay students and faculty gathered in the Webster gym, entering with alumni and board members alike, for Convocation.

Traditions are a core part of Maclay’s history and what brings the school community together to produce Maclay pride. In order to honor that pride, Head of School, Mr. James Milford, implemented Convocation eight years ago in 2015. The motive of Convocation is to kick off the school year with grades one through twelve gathered together to exemplify the one school community and reflect

on the upcoming school year. Physics teacher and father, William Perry, has a personal experience with the one school aspect of Convocation.

“The idea of coming together as a school and welcoming [the school year] together is really cool; it gives you that one community feeling,” Perry said.” My daughter didn’t get to be there because she’s in pre-school, but it is funny to look and see my wife on the other side of the aisle. I do like that, especially because I can make faces at her, so that part is fun. I look forward to when [my daughter] is in first grade and gets to do that because I think she’ll have a blast.”

Since the world dealt with the unexpected interruption of COVID-19, Convocation had a two year hiatus, only to

KEEPING MACLAY TRADITIONS ALIVE

return this year. Consequently, the majority of upper school students have not experienced Convocation before, creating an air of excitement in the student body. New student, junior Bella Ekk, was pleasantly surprised by the one school feel of Convocation.

“It was so cute looking at all the little kids with the seniors, ” Ekk said. “Learning the [Alma Mater], that was kinda fun! I had never known that was a thing.”

The only thing that was different with Convocation this year was livestreaming the event due to limited space and providing easy access for alumni and parents all over the country to be present. The purpose and traditions that make up Convocation have not changed within the six occasions

Convocation has occured. Ninth year teacher, Stephanie Amidon, has gotten to experience the start of Convocation as well as the return, making her well versed with the traditions.

“When Mr. Milford started the tradition of convocation, I immediately saw the purpose of it,” Amidon said. “Convocation has come to be one of my favorite events on campus. As we continue to grow the one school community it is a wonderful way to bring the entire Maclay community together. I truly enjoy seeing the seniors walk in with the first and second graders. It is a reminder of the beginning and end of the life of a Marauder- it’s a living breathing vision of our

Acorn to Oaks.

THE 2022 SCHOOL YEAR MARKS THE RETURN ON MACLAY’S ANNUAL CONVOCATION CEREMONY

ONE COMMUNITY. (Right) Senior Class President Lilly Phipps delivers her Convocation speech motivating students. (Middle) The class of 2028 middle schoolers enter via the Convocation processional. (Left) 49 year veteran educator Jennifer Corzine uses the ceremonial bell to ring in the new year, a tradition and honor carried on by the longest standing member of the Maclay faculty.

FIRST DAY

FESTIVITIES

MACLAY SENIORS CELEBRATE THEIR LAST FIRST DAY WITH PHOTOS AND BREAKFAST OUTSIDE OF THE WEBSTER CENTER

LAST YEAR TOGETHER.

GOLDEN CROWNS. Seniors

SCHOOL SPIRIT. Senior Meg Howell holding the ‘First Day of School’ sign posing with the Chick-Fil-A cow and Rowdy the Marauder. Big smiles are shown across her face to get this new and exciting year started.

Design By Kate Bulloch

Photos By Katelyn Eldred

SENIOR ROYALTY Pictured left to right, seniors Paloma Rambana, Tanisha Petit, Lauren Price, Chari Beamer, Prezence Francis, and Heaven Ward sporting their homemade senior crowns.

BROS 4 LIFE. Pictured from left to right, seniors Tristen Lunt, Colin McAllister, Caleb Heuchan, Evan Brown, Michael Grant, Grayson Oberste and Kolton Lawson smiling together next to the Webster fountain. While thinking about the memories they made together over the last four years.

Emily Macri and Ilana Rachin posing in front of the famous Maclay fountain, decked out in their senior gear. These two can not wait to kick off the year.

THE ONE AND ONLY. The 2023 Senior Class gathers around in front of the Webster Center. Everyone shows their big smiles while celebrating their last first day of high school at Maclay School.

Senior girls smiling for a picture on their last first day of high school. They pose together against the iconic Maclay fountain to celebrate this special day.

SPOTLIGHT

TRAVEL TAKES

ARE YOU ABLE TO SLEEP IN PLANE OR CAR

A LOOK INTO MACLAY OPINIONS ON TRAVEL ETIQUETTE AND THE OPINION SECTION

*174 students surveyed

DO YOU THINK HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SHOULD HAVE SUMMER HOMEWORK?

23

151

DO

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE YOU TRAVELED TO THIS SUMMER?

DO YOU THINK HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM SUMMER HOMEWORK?

WHEN DID YOU DO YOUR SUMMER HOMEWORK?

RIGHT WHEN SUMMER STARTED

MIDWAY THROUGH SUMMER

THE WEEK BEFORE SCHOOL STARTED

THE NIGHT BEFORE SCHOOL STARTED

EDITORIAL OPINIONS

WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON MACLAY’S NEW PHONE POLICY?

PEYTON NAYLOR “

12th grade

12th grade

I think that there should be a little more trust in students that they will not go on their phones. Maybe we can just put them in our bags.

I think it will improve learning a lot. I know many students don’t like it because obviously our lives revolve around our phones, but I think it will truly help people in the classroom not have as many distractions so they can fully learn what you’re supposed to be learning in class instead of having your phone as a distraction.

“

Weare the generation of technology. We are the ones that use media to learn, to be creative, to find inspiration. Students all around the world rely on their phones in their everyday lives. They use them to communicate, submit homework, research and more. This pocketsize device holds endless opportunities for the future, but it has recently been ripped away as a result of individuals abusing this privilege. A breach of trust within the upper school has occurred and Maclay felt this was the most effective way to retain the attention of their students. Although few students have been found to be misusing their internet access, aspects such as research, learning, inspiration, and creativity should outweigh these mishaps, earning the usage of phones back with a higher level of observation.

At the beginning of the 20222023 school year, Maclay’s upper school implemented a new phone policy, one that requires every phone in the room be stored in neon yellow and navy pockets in the front or back of the room for the duration of each class period. These devices are to be off-limits to everyone. This new policy has entered Maclay’s campus as students in past years have used phones to play games, go on social media and more.

“I think Maclay needed to implement this because it was

really difficult for teachers to hold the policy when not all the teachers were doing so,” chemistry teacher Mrs. Kline said. “It definitely results in better levels of focus for the students”.

Despite the appropriate usage of phones from the majority of the Maclay community, they will be stored away during every 80-minute class, freshman and sophomore academy, homeroom during announcements and during any B day activity such as habitudes. Despite some exceptions such as Kahoot and Quizlet only when given permission by teachers, these phones will serve no purpose, give no knowledge and allow us no exploration of creativity throughout our school day.

Arguably, the internet that can be provided on phones is one of the most useful sources of information and data. While textbooks found in classrooms can provide someone with facts and history, the internet is filled with limitless information on any topic to be thought of. According to Harvard University, using a phone as a quick method of learning something new can be convenient and beneficial to students in school. The access Maclay has to quick wifi and the internet leaves this research and information at the fingertips of our students with just a couple of clicks on a phone.

“I think that phones can

sometimes be useful in the classroom,” junior Grace Reichelderfer said. “In certain classes like risk and reward we have certain apps on our phones that we’ve been using.”

Despite troubles that arise from certain students, limiting everyone to no access can be detrimental to their learning ability.

In addition to the information that can be utilized from cell phones, they also provide apps such as Pinterest, Instagram and Photoshop that explore a whole new realm of creativity and inspiration. Artists and designers in everyday lives use these apps to create sculptures, projects, designs and more. Despite the exceptions that some teachers may make in their classrooms, courses at Maclay such as AP art, photography, ceramics, band and more would suffer from the loss of their large sources. Immediate access to these resources is something that makes these classes so enriching and useful. According to Education Week, 82% of high school students rely on their phones for learning and other artistic usage during a normal school day. Similar to the learning setbacks that may arise, our students will suffer from the loss of these resources.

While the advantages that come from using these devices to learn are important, the ultimate goal for

TAKING AWAY OUR TRUST

MACLAY IMPLEMENTS A NEW PHONE POLICY FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR THAT LIMITS THE LEARNING OF STUDENTS

FOR: AGAINST: 7 1

The members of Maclay Andalusian’s editorial board who agree with the editorial featured in the opinion section are represented by being for, and the members who disagree are represented by against.

a teacher and student relationship is trust. As we mature and navigate our way through high school, we must learn to rise to different occasions and put our education first. Rather than ripping this freedom from everyone at the start of the year, we should be given the opportunity to gain that trust from our teachers to use phones and our resources responsibly. If this trust is broken by any student, removal and the loss of privileges are appropriate measures to take. Supervision to ensure true intentions can be heightened without limiting everyone in our community.

Despite the distraction and temptation that phones may cause for some students, many use them solely for learning. Methods such as interactive classes and hands-on activities can limit this distraction as a substitute for phones. Whether that is learning academically, artistically or socially, it is important to be treated and act like the young adults we are. Students who use their resources to better their learning academically and artistically should be given the trust and privilege of the usage of technology and cell phones from their teachers. Rather than taking this freedom away from students, we as a Maclay community want our resources back to ensure the most efficient and thorough learning.

FILLED WITH

STUDIES SUMMER

SUMMER HOMEWORK IS ACTUALLY BENEFIICIAL TO STUDENTS

BY VINE BUTLER

Most students are excited when summer break finally rolls around. After a long, hard and tiring school year, they are ready to relax, and take a break from all the learning. The last thing they are thinking about is what book to read, or what skills they need to brush up on. That is what summer break is for, right?

Well, the summer homework that teachers assign during the months of break is not for no reason. Contrary to popular belief, teachers are not piling on loads of work just to ruin all the

common forms of summer homework teachers will assign is reading. According to the National Education Association, failure to read over the summer can cause a decline in reading level, and academic skills overall.

Summer reading can certainly come across as boring to most kids who would rather be doing just about anything else; however, it is a lot more beneficial than most would think. It refreshes their academic thinking and teaches them things they aren’t even aware they are learning. It is one of the best and easiest brains working, guarantees skills will remain intact. As Scholastic states, a consistent education is the best way for a student to learn and receive the best education possible.

Reviewing past material over the summer is one of the best ways to keep a student’s mind fresh, and makes sure that they will not forget everything they have already learned.

Another reason why summer work is so important is that without it, students can easily become unprepared for the school year ahead of them. Without reviewing and refreshing what they have learned, eventually students will forget

everything, and become unprepared for the new school year. Teachers spend all year getting their students ready for their next year, and doing nothing over the summer will only put them at a disadvantage. When staying consistent with learning, even when not in school, students will be more prepared and end up having a smoother transition into the next school year.

“When I do summer homework, returning to school is less of a shock,” junior Copeland Frazee said. “I am acclimated to academic material and ready to start the year.”

Summer reading is also helpful when preparing for the upcoming school year. Teachers assign these books to keep their students’ minds working so they will be ready when they start back. Summer reading also usually ties in with future lesson plans, so reading the assigned books will make sure students do not show up unprepared for the year.

Although summer homework is an essential part of learning, a good point to bring up is the fact that summer break is supposed to be a break. It is supposed to be a time to rest, rejuvenate, and have fun. So, when students get bombarded with a load of work, that break soon becomes stressful—the opposite of what it’s meant to be. But even though summer break may be for relaxing, doing nothing will only have a negative impact on a young student’s education. A balanced amount of summer homework is the perfect medium, because it keeps the students brain working without tiring them out and defeating the purpose of what summer break is here for.

Alhough few students truly enjoy doing work over the summer, it is much more necessary and beneficial to one’s education than most people think. So the next time you flinch at the thought of reading or practicing math problems over the summer, just remember that it isn’t only there to torture you. At the end of the day, it’s there for the benefit of your own education.

STUDIES OUT FOR THE SUMMER

SUMMER HOMEWORK SHOULD BE GIVEN DURING SUMMER BREAK

BY JULIA LUCK

What time is it? Summertime. School’s out, scream and shout. Finally summer’s here. Good to be chillin’ out. I’m off the clock, the pressure’s off.” These lyrics from Disney’s High School Musical have the aspect of summer all wrong. Instead of having fun and going to the beach with friends, summer is bombarded with loads of summer homework. Instead of the “pressure being off,” students still have stress on their mind.

During this current school year, 75% of teens reported that they experienced major amounts of stress and on a 10 point scale, teens had an average stress rate of 5.8. The normal stress rate should be closer to a 3.8. Students need summer break to decompress from the school year; however, summer homework is not letting students do this. Teens get so overwhelmed with all of their summer homework, that they end up being just as stressed as they were during the school year. Instead, they should be relaxing and having fun.

The reason why schools claim that they distribute summer homework is because they do not want students to forget all of the information that they learned during the year. But, what schools don’t factor into that logic is that in order for students to retain information, they need to be motivated and engaged. Students are so burned out from the school year, that by summer time they do not want to think about school work.

“It is very time consuming,” sophomore Suzanne Beshears said. “It stresses me out before school starts and I hate feeling stressed.”

In summer movies and television shows, students are portrayed as having fun and enjoying their summer. This idea of summer is engrained in teens’ minds. Once summer work is thrown into their schedule, all motivation is lost mainly because summer work is not and should not be the main focus of summer. Due to this, students are not learning anything and not retaining any information. So, by the time they are back in school, they will not remember anything and the summer homework served no purpose. Moreover, first impressions on teachers are extremely important. This is how teachers will see and think of a student for the rest of the year. If students do not have the motivation and drive to do their best work

over the summer, teachers might think the student is lazy or not a good student. This may negatively impact the remainder of the school year. Instead, teachers should only focus on the work turned in during the academic school year when the student is most focused. Many students spend the majority of their time on academics during the school year. They are unfortunately left with little to no time for sports, internships or activities that involve their passion. When universities accept students into their programs, they look for a well-rounded student. Universities want to see that a student has devoted a significant amount of time towards something they are passionate about, not just academics. The summer allows students to do just this. They can intern or volunteer in a field they may pursuing once they graduated college. sports is the student’s passion, they may want to join a summer travel league that allows them to compete at a national level and further their sports journey. They could even travel the world if that is what they love to do. The dreaded summer work only hinders students’ capabilities to experience these extracurricular activities that are essential for college acceptances. If a student doesn’t need to worry about their summer work, they can focus on any of their passions over the summer.

Some would argue that summer work keeps students engaged throughout the summer so that they can begin the school year strong and ready to learn. This is not the case, however, because students did not get any down time to decompress. Instead of coming to school ready to learn after a relaxing summer, they are starting the school year tired and not wanting to do their school work. Unless a student is struggling in a subject, students should not get any required summer work. Teachers should post optional work if a student struggled in

CULTIVATING

COMMUNITY

MACLAY BRINGS BACK ALL SCHOOL TRADITIONS AND IMPLEMENTS NEW ONES FOR ALL STUDENTS TO TAKE

When class trips come to mind you will find Maclay students shredding the slopes with their friends on the Junior ski trip, shoving their classmates faces full of shaving cream on freshman challenge and screaming their class chants with their grade at pep rallies. These memorable traditions that every young student desires to be a part of cultivate the Maclay community and compose unforgettable relationships for each and every student.

When COVID hit Maclay’s campus in 2019, all of those unique traditions were set aside with an uncertain return date. The hiatus took those significant opportunities from students, altering their Maclay experience to the point where they were unable to participate in traditions as one upper school student body. However, as Maclay moves forward this year, all the memorable traditions are commencing again and new ones are even in the works

“It was very difficult,” Assistant Head of Upper School Mr. Beamer said. “Maclay is a people’s institution. We are people first. We are a community, so anytime you must stop those traditions that would allow for the community to get together and for people to build relationships, it’s tough.”

When the pandemic first hit, what students previously called a “normal” high school experience was cut short and they were unable to take part in all the traditions that made high school special. None of the current high schoolers

have had the full Maclay upper school experience as the previous graduating classes. where they were able to participate in all dances, trips and other memorable aspects with their friends. Many of them in fact, have never even experienced having a back to school dance or convocation as an upper school student. The class of 2023 seniors are the only class that has experienced a back to school dance and convocation since the pandemic hit, and the last time they attended one it was their freshman year. When asked about her experience attending her first convocation as an upper school student, freshman Claire Smith said

“It was really cool to see what I get to look forward to for my senior year,” freshman Claire Smith said. “It was also cool to see how much all the rest of the school looks up to the seniors.”

However, as more things are starting to go back to normal, Maclay thought it was time to return to their roots and bring back all the traditions students love and cherish for the 2022-2023 school year. For example, on Friday Aug 13. convocation was brought back after two years of having to cancel it because of COVID. Started by Mr. Milford as an idea to kick off the new school year, convocation is now an honored Malcay tradition that dates back to 2015 where a fundamental aspect is to have student speakers, student musicians and ceremonial formality for a deeper meaning.

BY Merrell Webster

When asked about how he felt experiencing his first Convocation, the new chemistry teacher philip previte explained that he had never seen anything like it in all his years of teaching.

“ Iv’e been teaching 43 years and it was the best assembly I have ever seen in 43 years,” Previte said. “ My favorite part was the first and second grade kids coming in with the seniors. It was amazing, I was tearing up looking at the little kids looking up to thos monsters. I really was blessed by it, I enjoyed it and it was really good.”

When most students think of a “normal” high school experience, they think of all the activities and traditions that they can take part in. According to Mr. Beamer and the administration, a motivating factor to institute these traditions again is the sense of normalcy and consistency it brings to all the students. They are much more likely to enjoy their high school experience when they know for certain they can look forward to and participate in the traditions that frame their experiences.

“ We are ready to get back to some sense of normalcy, “ Beamer said. “We know that normal is not going to be what it was two years ago, but if we can get back to something that is consistent and predictable, that’s going to bring about a sense of relief. “With the Hustle and bustle of the day when the school year starts, everyone going in their own directions and clubs and sports, we really use those traditions to allow

the students to know each other. As an administrator and a teacher here, what is so special to me is that oftentimes it’s not what you taught kids and students in a classroom that they remember. They remember how you made them feel and how you encouraged them in whatever the activities were on those trips.”

Not only was convocation brought back this year, but the administration has plans to bring back all of the class trips for each grade. During the past two years, all class trips were either canceled or re-done in a virtual aspect. In 2020, Sophomore Safari and Junior Ski trips were canceled. The junior ski trip continued in 2022, but with both the junior and senior classes since the seniors of 2022 were unable to attend their junior year. Freshman challenge was re-created to happen on the Maclay campus instead of being an overnight trip.

“ I personally wish we had a freshman challenge at an overnight camp, ‘’ Junior Victoria Gainey said. “ But during that time that wasn’t an option so the teachers tried their best to give us the best experience we could have. It definitely could have been worse or we could have not had it at all.”

To make these traditions more memorable, students can get involved by taking charge in the traditions they want to see get started and to give feedback on the ones they want to see changed. Whether that’s using the suggestion box in Langford hall or utilizing Student Council to help get things done, students’ voices can have a lasting impact on new traditions.

“We ownership have becomes allowing the at traditions traditions. traditions student Bringing that part set Whether multitude bringing dance, trips they body with important pronounced Maclay them, or memories. moment memories faculty their “I Maclay in this environment, here,” together, other. are outside so realize and

other. teacher that taught that how you the brought administration class past either virtual Safari canceled. 2022, senior were year. re-created campus a overnight said. wasn’t their we have had more get the started they that’s Langford to voices new

“We want the students to take ownership because when students have ownership for something, it becomes special,” Beamber said. “By allowing these traditions to impact the student voice, we are looking at traditions but also making new traditions. We want to start new traditions and it all comes from the student voice. That’s so important.”

Bringing back these traditions that have become such a compelling part of the Maclay community will set the foundation for togetherness. Whether that’s seen through a multitude of endeavors such as bringing back the back to school dance, freshman orientation, class trips or creating new traditions, they will all bring the Maclay student body together as one community with a sense of openness. It’s important to remember that these pronounced traditions make Maclay feel like Maclay. Without them, there is no sense of bonding or memories. traditions shape each moment and imprint unforgettable memories that students and even faculty will cherish for the rest of their lives.

“I want our students to leave Maclay knowing that every person in this world, every person in this environment, that they belong here,” Beamer said. “We can work together, and we can trust each other. A lot of the activities we have are built around trust and coming outside of your box, and that’s what’s so important to me that students realize that. We are in this together and we are all the same.”

BREAKFAST BUNCH. The Maclay 2022 sophomores were up and ready for breakfast at 8:00 a.m. sharp every morning of Sophomore Safari. They stood outside the breakfast room eager to get their fun day ahead started.

THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE. (Freshman challenge team “The Bees” group together for a picture after completing the Freshman Olympics. Nothing better than teaming up with your peers for a fun game.

SHREDDING THE SLOPES. Pictured from left to right, Maclay 2023 juniors Lilly Phipps, Riley Stafford, Barrett Matheson and Kate Bulloch pose at the top of the Breckenridge mountain. Waiting to ski down the variety of slopes, these four snap a photo to take in the beautiful view of Colorado.

HAND IN HAND. Pictured from left to right, class of 2023 seniors Evan Brown, Meghan Goletz, Merrell Webster, Grace Reichelderfer and Meg Howell smile hand in hand with their assigned first graders at convocation. The annual Convocation is a Maclay tradition that made its way back to campus this year after being canceled due to COVID -19.

FEATURE SPOTLIGHT NEW UPPER SCHOOL TEACHERS

RYAN KLINE

POSITION: Cheerleading coach/ Intermural Sports Program leader

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? Bring Maclay Spirit back throughout the whole campus.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY?

The rest of my family is here at Maclay, so this was a great opportunity to be on campus and spend more time with them.

PHILIP PREVITE

POSITION: Chemistry Teacher

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? I have a passion for chemisty, so I cannot wait to teach my students.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY? I was headed down to South Florida when I got the offer from Maclay about teaching, it was a perfect match.

MILDRED SECKEL

POSITION: Theater Teacher

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? I can’t wait to see how the program grows and develps this year while I’m here.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY? I worked at leon high school for 38 years and i just love the performing arts. When i found out Maclay had an opening position, i was eager to join the team.

ARAN SMITH

POSITION: History Teacher

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? I am excited to get the opportunity to work with high school students. I have always worked in a college setting, so I can’t wait to see what I can accomplish this year.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY? I was impressed with how tight knit it was and everyone was very friendly.

ISMAEL MILLIGAN JASON CAULEY

POSITION: Art Teacher

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? I am exited to work with the students and develop my own practice in the classroom.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY?I have heard a lot of great things about Maclay so when I got the offer to come here, I jumped on it as soon as possible.

POSITION: History Teacher/Football Coach

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR? Working and balancing both football and teaching.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO MACLAY? When I saw there was an opening, I knew that this was exactly where I needed to be.

Design By Merrell Webster

Moststudents get involved in clubs or take responsibility for a leadership position, but few can do both with a positive attitude. Whether he’s helping around campus or playing on the varsity tennis team, senior Oakley Deison always has a smile on his face. He is currently involved in five clubs, all of which include: Student Council, Honor Council, Student Ambassador, Multicultural Awareness Club (MAC) and Model U.N. On top of

Deison has earned leadership roles in Student Council and MAC. While he is largely involved in the upper school, his interest in club involvement goes back to his days in lower school.

Deison, who has been at Maclay since kindergarten, has a history of school involvement. In lower school, he started off in Student Council and in middle school, he joined Model U.N., Brain Bowl, tennis and baseball. Although he is known for his outgoing personality, Deison wasn’t always extroverted. However, by joining clubs and becoming involved in the Maclay community, he has evolved to become comfortable in the spotlight.

“I just like Maclay a lot,” Deison said. “All these clubs are interesting. Student Council is involved in dances which I love doing and planning. I always wanted to go into MAC and Model U.N, and I joined Honor and Student Council my junior year.”

Even though Deison was involved in clubs for most of his life, he did not go into high school knowing he wanted multiple clubs. Nonetheless, the amount of clubs he’s involved in provide him a lengthy and diverse to do list. In MAC, Deison helps with culture fairs where he makes food for lunch and educates the student body. Within Honor Council, he sees students that

have possibly broken honor code, decides if they have and what the punishment is. Deison helps the Student Ambassador Club by welcoming new students to make them feel at home on campus. In Model U.N., he prepares for the once a year debate, with his clubmates, to solve world issues. Within Student Council, Deison manages affairs, runs bake sales for charity drives and helps the service club with events.

“Oakley leads with positivity and action,’’ Student Council sponsor Heather Bas said. “He bases his creativity on what he sees lacking in the Upper School experience. Oakley is open to constructive criticism, an attribute that is necessary to be a long term successful leader. He welcomes the help of others and is a great team player.”

While Deison loves what he does, the most challenging part of being in so many clubs is keeping track of it all. An inevitable part of taking up a big workload is the stress that comes with it. Whenever he is not devoting his time to clubs, Deison is taking advantage of his free time at school by going to FLEX to get as much work done as possible.

“It’s always the worst feeling when you just forget a meeting,” Deison said. “There’s definitely a lot of stress that comes with it all. If you ever get overwhelmed, just go for a walk. You’re going to feel better I promise you. Narrow your vision; you could have a million things due that week but focus on the next day, get through it and you’ll be good.”

One perk of being in multiple clubs is that Deison gets to make new friendships and strengthen

existing ones, just by being a part of the school environment. Getting to know people around school gives him a sense of what the student body is thinking or feeling, which helps with the work he does in his clubs. His involvement also enables him to know what events are happening in the upper school. Being able to plan those events and rally school spirit helps Deison feel connected to the Maclay community more than the average student. That aspect is important, as being involved in the school community makes it a better place for him.

“Oakley is nice, always there to break the ice and very outgoing,” Student Council member Clayton Knox said. “He isn’t afraid to step up and lead. He is a great example to follow.”

For anyone who wants to get involved in clubs, there are various opportunities around school. During the first month of school, the upper school hosts a club fair where students can express their interest in various clubs. Another way to get involved is to talk to club sponsors or interact with people in a desired club. For example, in Student Council anyone in the student body can sit in on meetings every Wednesday at lunch, making it easier for students to express their concerns.

“Reach out to the clubs,” Deison said. “They’re always happy to have you. Just join and do what you feel passionate for or like. Be enthusiastic. You could not know anything but if you are eager to do something and get it done then everything else will work out.”

BY LEAH KIROS

THE MAN THE MYTH THE LEGEND!

Design By Meghan Goletz

A DEEPER LOOK INTO OAKLEY DEISON’S LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH HIS INVOLVMENT THROUGHOUT MACLAY CLUBS

A & E SPOTLIGHT SUGGESTIONS STAFF

SUMMER JAMS

SUMMER RELEASES

DATE RELEASED: July 15th, 2022

SUMMARY: At a young age, Kya was abandoned by her parents. Learning to survive by herself in the marsh, this intelligent and resilient girl is isolated from the rest of Barkley cove. Drawn to two young men from town, she finds herself being transferred into a new life. However, when one of them is found dead, Kya becomes the main suspect. As the case commences, the verdict is unclear and threatens to reveal dangerous secrets. What orignally

DATE RELEASED: June 24th, 2022

SUMMARY: From his rise to fame and his extraordinary superstardom, rock and roll icon Elvis Presley experiences a difficult relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker for over 20 years. Central to Elvis’s happiness is Priscilla, one of the most influential people in his life and journey to becoming a superstar. The movie is told through the lenses of Colonel Tom Parker where he is accused of taking advantage of Elvis, so he must set the record straight.

DATE RELEASED: June 17th, 2022

SUMMARY: Excited to spend the summer at cousins beach with her mother’s bestfriends family, 15 year old girl Belly finds herself falling into a love triangle with two brothers, Conrad and Jeramiah. While trying to have a good summer and preparing to participate in a debutatunt ball, Belly struggles to decide which boy will finally have her heart.

Staff Member Sawyer Davis’s favorite summer songss

Dark Red

Good Life

Passionfruit

DATE RELEASED: May 20th, 2022

GENRES: Funk, Pop Rock, Contemporary R&B and Synth-Pop

ABOUT THE ALBUM: With 13 total tracks, Harry’s House takes listeners on a journey through Styles home and life. While not every song is based on his personal experiences, he based the songs off of the stories he wanted his fans to enjoy.

R E L O D

scan here to play the Andalusian’s new wordle!

scan here to listen to the full Andalusian spotify playlist

3 Nights Dominic

I Feel Fantastic Riovaz

Warm (feat. Mia) Dre’es,

Mr. Rager

Kid Cudi

The Andalusian

Magic In The Hamptons

Social House, Lil Yachty

Lost Frank Ocean

Steve Lacy

Kayne West, T-Pain

Drake

Fike

Mia

SCARE OF THE

BY: EFREM ROSENBERG

fter 1,058 long and cumbersome days, Netflix finally delivered the highly anticipated fourth season of its hit show “Stranger Things.” Released on May 27 and July 1, this two part spectacle made up for the wait, and gave fans everything they loved from the previous seasons. With the introduction of absolutely outstanding new characters and three perfectly intertwined storylines, there is no doubt that season four of “Stranger Things” will go down

as true peak fiction. Before the end of the first episode, viewers were already introduced to the season’s greatest strength: new characters Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn) and Vecna (Jamie Bower). Eddie is first introduced to the viewers as a geeky, cowardly and failed highschool student, the kind of character most people would hate. Shortly after, however, Eddie faces hardship, and proceeds to rediscover who he truly is, transforming into a Hawkins hero and fan favorite. The other major character addition, Vecna, is the season’s “big bad.” Vecna haunts both characters and viewers alike, all

difference viewers may notice is the season’s ramped up scare factor. The new horror-like feel is almost entirely thanks to the season’s villain, Vecna, who takes a Voldemort, Freddy Krueger like appearance, and who has the ability to telepathically connect to Hawkin’s residents, despite being situated in the upside down. Viewers also become familiar with the characters frightening kill ritual, which is preluded with the infamous grandfather clock and finished off in the most grotesque way imaginable - snapped limbs, eyes forced back into the brain and a notorious trail of blood around the now empty eye sockets. For those horror aficionados and for the average viewer, season four’s newfound scare factor will please all.

With all of the effort put into new characters and horror, one would think that the directors, the Duffer Brothers may have slacked off when it comes to the plot, but that could not be further from the truth: the plot was outstanding. The season starts out with the characters spread out around the world,

allowing each enough time to fully flesh out and develop. As Vecna’s wrath of terror takes its toll on Hawkins, the stories begin to intermix more and more, as the team bands together, from both close and afar, to battle this great evil. Season four’s complex plot was without a doubt a massive risk, but in the end it paid off tremendously, spoiling viewers from beginning to end.

“STRANGER THINGS” SEASON 4 WAS THE PERFECT ENDING TO A GREAT SERIES

Design By Merrell Webster ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 17

T- W

PREPARE TO BE DISAPPOINTED WITH THE NEW “JURASSIC WORLD: DOMINION” MOVIE

BY: ELIZABETH BODIFORD

As the four year long wait for “Jurassic Park” fans came to an end, they were chomping at the chance to get back to the theater after director Colin Trevorrow finally released “Jurassic World: Dominion” on June 10, 2022. In a world where dinosaurs and humans are forced to coexist, dinosaur researcher Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) and his girlfriend Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) must save their daughter Maisie Lockwood (Isabella Sermon) from the Biosyn corporation. Meanwhile, a species of genetically altered insects have mysteriously appeared and are attacking the world’s food supply. There were a few amazing aspects in the action packed movie like the cinematography, but the bad aspects such as scare factor and the plot outweighed the good.

During the first intense scenes with Maisie and Owen, the plot seems to be clear and grabs the attention of the viewer.

As it continues, new events are added that make it extremely

and disinterested. The redeeming quality

SPOTLIGHT

FEATURED ATHLETE OF THE SUMMER

FEATURED ATHLETES SHOW INITIATIVE AND LEADERSHIP TO THEIR SPORTS TEAM, WHILE BEING PRESENT AND RESPONSIBLE IN THE MACLAY COMMUNITY COPELAND FRAZEE

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOWARD TO MOST THIS SEASON? Since we got a new coach this season, I am looking forward to see how we grow and develop as a team.

WHAT IS YOUR POSITION IN CHEER? Flyer

WHAT GAME ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR THIS SEASON AND WHY? NFC because it is our biggest rival.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT CHEER? Spending time with

2022-2023 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

SUMMER SPORT ON FILM

VOLLEYBALL PRE SEASON PHOTOS

hard in the weight room to surpass her old max for power clean. While the weight room may look empty she had teammates on the other side cheering her on.

POWER UP! Sophomore Gray Burleson is preparing to max out her power clean on the first day of testing. Her teammates cheer her on from the side to complete the lift.

PERFECTLY PARALLEL. Sophomore Gray Burleson working her way up to her max in back squats. As captain Brooke Nohle spots Gray to make sure she has a safe lift.

DRIVE THROUGH THE FLOOR. Captain Landri Ross working

Photos By: Katelyn Eldred

BY MEG HOWELL

Soaring through the air with tremendous strength, there was no doubt Maclay freshman Elizabeth Dowdy was a contender for the Florida 2A pole vault state title. However, becoming a State Champion is not easy to achieve. Pole vault demands perfect technique, time and effort: both mental and physical. Dowdy possesses all of these qualities to reach the top, and she did just that.

Attributable to her background as a gymnast, Dowdy excelled in other Maclay sports before track and field began in the spring. She was a member of the 2021-22 Maclay girls weightlifting team. Additionally, Dowdy participated in the first girls lacrosse team Maclay school has ever had. After impressive seasons in weightlifting and lacrosse, Dowdy chose to pick up a new sport, pole vault.

“I decided to do pole vault because I knew my gymnastics background would be beneficial towards [pole vaulting] and I wanted to start something new!”

Dowdy said.

A family connection to pole vault added to Dowdy’s excitement as her sister Katherine Dowdy, a 2019 Maclay graduate, also participated in the sport.

“I also chose pole vault because my sister used to do it and it looked like so much fun!” Dowdy said.

Although motivated for her freshman season, Dowdy recognized that training to become an elite pole vaulter was nothing shy of difficult. Dowdy had to become familiar with the warmup routines, drills, and techniques before she was able to compete and reach the next level.

“My average practice starts with a warm-up of jogging a lap and stretching,” Dowdy said.“Then, I do some pole vault drills from fewer steps. Then, once I’m ready, I jump from my normal run and jump over a bungee at a certain height.”

Perfect technique is the most important skill to learn in pole vault as failure to bend the body in

specific directions will result in the inability to clear a certain height and make it over the bar. In most cases, athletes who fail to clear the bar will not advance to the next stage of a competition.

“The hardest part of pole vault is learning to do all of the techniques correctly and to make sure every single part of the vault is done well with correct form,” Dowdy said.

On top of perfect technique, pole vaulting is also a major time commitment. The Maclay pole vaulters practice for at least two hours almost every day of the week. The team even travels to cities such as Destin or Santa Rosa to put in extra hours of technique practice.

Even throughout the challenges that Dowdy faces in pole vault, her joy outshines the adversity.

“The best part of pole vault is getting to practice and just trying to jump as high as you can!” Dowdy said.

After a tremendous regular season, Dowdy set a goal of making

it onto the podium and improving her personal record at the FHSAA 2A State Championships. Dowdy was thrilled with the outcome of her performance, as she earned the first-place medal and got to stand on the top of the podium.

“I went into state wanting to make it on the podium, yet I did not know what place I would earn,” Dowdy said.“I just wanted to try my best to set a personal record, so after I did I was super shocked and excited to win first place.”

While setting a Maclay School record, Dowdy became one of the few freshmen women to clear 3.71 meters. She plans to continue her pole vault career for the remainder of high school.

“It feels so exciting to win as a freshman knowing I have three more years to improve and see where that can take me,” Dowdy said. “I will most definitely continue pole vault next year and for the rest of high school to see where it leads me.”

Photos Provided By Elizabeth Dowdy

HOMETOWN HERO

BY RJ HOSAY

After years of training, senior Peyton Naylor announced his commitment to Florida State University (FSU) on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat on June 19 after a conversation with FSU special teams coordinator John Papuchis and head coach Mike Norvell. Naylor has accomplished his dream.

“I chose Florida State because it’s been my dream school since I can remember,” Naylor said. “I fell in love with the culture that the football program has surrounding it.”

Naylor has lived in Tallahassee for his entire life and started out playing football for Deerlake Middle School. His long snapping career began in the eighth grade. Quickly spreading his name across the nation as a long snapper, he proceeded to play for Lawton Chiles High School for his freshman and sophomore years. He played for Maclay High School for his junior year and will finish his last season with them this coming August.

“What makes Peyton a great teammate is his compassion for others,” senior Michael Smith said. “He’s a really caring and uplifting person. He’s always gonna give a consistent, positive and competitive energy which brings out the best in others.”

Throughout Naylor’s years as a long snapper, he has trained with his school and with his private coach John Spradlin from Rocket To The Top. He has participated in college camps across America, and has been ranked in the top five for long snappers for over a year now.

“Peyton is and always has been extremely committed to snapping since he started,” Christy Naylor said. “Not only is he committed to it, he loves it.”

Naylor is ranked through two programs. The first program, Kohl’s, has him listed as a five star recruit and ranked third in the United States. The second program, Rubio, has him listed as a five star recruit and ranked fifth in the United States.

“His success is all due to his work ethic,” Smith said. “I’ve worked with him for four years now and his determination and passion for the sport is second to none.”

Naylor’s first offer came from the United States Air Force Academy, but it was too early in his career to make a big decision. Once FSU offered, Naylor accepted, and he plans to officially sign in December.

“I think the biggest difference will be the pressure,” Naylor said. “Snapping in front of 1,000 people is a lot different than 79,000 screaming fans.”

SENIOR PEYTON NAYLOR COMMITS TO FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY TO JOIN THE FOOTBALL TEAM AS A LONG SNAPPER

Design By Meghan Goletz

NEW FACE

ON THE FIELD

JASON CAULEY GRACES THE SIDELINES AS NEXT MACLAY FOOTBALL COACH

BY ZACH LOWE

It’salmost that time of year for Friday night lights, parking lot tailgates and good ole Marauder football. As the Maclay football team enters the 2022 to 2023 season, they welcome a new head coach to the program. Jason Cauley took the head coaching job back in February. Cauley’s welcoming entrance into the Maclay community is a step into a new setting as he had previously coached high school football in Alabama, Hawaii, Kansas and Colorado.

“Everybody is being as nice as they can and giving up information to help me as much as possible,” Cauley said.

Since Cauley has been in charge of several teams in the past, he plans to implement his coaching style on the Marauders and make adjustments to the previous system in order to have a successful season.

“I’m used to practicing every day during the summer and I would like a little more football to be done along with the strength training,” Cauley said. “We will play exciting football this season and will be scoring a lot of points on offense.”

With the little time Cauley has had to coach the Marauders, his expectations and views for the future have been hard to explore.

“It’s too early to tell: If we would have been working together all summer then I could tell you how it was going to be [the upcoming season].”

The new coach isn’t the only one adjusting. The players themselves must adapt and trust their new coach in order to have a successful season this year.

“Personally, I would say that the coach has his strong suits which should lead us to a strong and successful season,” junior linebacker Nathan Lillie said. “Things throughout the program have stayed the same but there seems to be more optimism running throughout the program. I think that I could speak for everyone on the team this year in saying that the ceiling for the season is pretty high and our confidence is really high.”

The “optimism” that Lillie suggested seemed to be a theme for the entire team, as Coach Cauley’s tactics have created a solid first impression.

“I think the upcoming season will be a great one,” junior wide receiver Grady Brown said. “I think we will be a much better team from last year. I feel like the coaching is more organized and I believe what I’m being taught.”

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the Marauder football team will continue to work on the field and in the weight room. After missing the playoffs in the 2021 to 2022 season, Coach Cauley and the Marauders look to bounce back and have a dominant year on the gridiron. Their first test will be in Albany, Georgia against Deerfield Windsor on Aug. 26.