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5225 East 56th Street Indianapolis, Indiana 46226
Cathedral High School Volume 106 Issue 1 September 22, 2026
MEGAPHONE STAFF
The Megaphone
Editors Kate Albaugh
SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 VOLUME 106 ISSUE 1
Front Cover Head Football Coach Bill Peebles addresses his team before its week 2 game against Loyola Academy. After a back-and-forth first half, the team fell to Loyola 33-19. Photo by Payten Elliott ‘28
Adler Rodman
Reporters Zoey Heath Olivia Carter Eliza Bradner Lillian Foley Ali Zink Ava Craig Harper Hornsby
Back Cover
Vaughn Wise Jayde Collins
The class of 2027 learn a new cheer from the 26/27 Leprechauns during the Welcome Assembly. Seconds later, the bleachers would split as the leprechauns ran through the “Red Sea.” Photo by Karly Boggs ‘28
Faculty Moderator Mr. Marc Quaranta Principal Mr. Mark Matthews School President Dr. Rob Bridges Memberships Indiana High School Press Association National Scholastic Press Association
Samantha Peszek ‘10 is now a broadcaster, podcast host, and founder of Beam Queen, a global gymnastics and traveling empowerment program that helps young gymnasts build confidence in and out of the gym. Watch Her Story with seniors Molly Liter and Olivia Thompson as Cathedral continues to celebrate 50 years of women. Her Story with Samantha Peszek ‘10 From Cathedral Facebook
Around the Hill The Circle City Classic Coronation was held Sunday, September 20th, and Cathedral was well represented on the stage! Please join us in congratulating Rebecca Jones ‘27 who was named 2026 Miss Circle City Classic! Rebecca received the crown based on her academic achievement, community service and leadership. Malia Pugh ‘27 was awarded 1st runner-up and Miss Congeniality. McKenzie Jordan ‘27 and Karrington Williams ‘27 finished in the top 7. From Cathedral Facebook
Irishconnection.net
Beyond Borders
Why World Language education is important for student’s futures. By: Ali Zink
A
s Indiana’s economy grows, so does the push for world language education in the state’s schools.
Whether it be a two-year or five-year commitment, students who learn to communicate in another language could be investing in their own futures. Supporters of language education say it can open doors in a student’s career path, plus encourage acceptance in a world that is becoming smaller by the day. They can also help students gain a better grasp on the world outside of their own. Opening Doors at Every Level For some, two years of language education is all that is required and enough to fulfill a school’s world language requirements. But, according to French teacher, Mr. Spurgin, introductory language courses can be a doorway to a student’s future. “First, it opens up the door to the world,” said Mr. Sprgin. “We are a global society and I believe that learning a second, or even a third language opens up so many opportunities for students. Employers are looking for those students who have that extra thing in their toolbox.” Spurgin, a firm believer in language education, feels that language courses can provide students with skills that can carry over into other aspects of their lives. Speaking specifically about the world languages taught at Cathedral, he says that students who take these courses can improve their problem solving and logic skills, as well as giving them a better understanding of the English language’s structure. Additionally, these courses also can teach students practical terms that will be useful if they choose to travel and communicate with people from other cultures. World language classes can teach students a lesson that can’t be found in a regular textbook; how to communicate with people from other cultures who may not share the same experiences and viewpoint as them. Understanding different perspectives can make students more accepting of others and help them
The online course guide at gocathedral.com shows the World Language offerings. Students can take ASL, French, German, Latin, or Spanish while at Cathedral. avoid assumptions about people and other languages that are foreign to them. Perhaps, the most appealing characteristic of language courses is that they can give students an edge in the job market. With the number of world renowned businesses located in Indiana, including, but not limited to businesses in the business, health, law and foreign trade industries. Students who have a basic understanding of other languages can have an additional skill to market to potential employers. From German Fundamentals to French Mastery For senior Edisyn Krug, studying German has advantages that go beyond the world language classroom. “I used to think that learning German would be about just learning new words, but it has actually helped me grow as a problem solver,” said Krug. “German grammar is like a logic puzzle. It’s actually helped me write better in English and develop stronger logical thinking and analysis for every subject. You don’t have to be super fluent in German to see how it has improved my mind.” Krug also feels that her skills in the German language can help her in the future because of Indiana’s strong connection to the country of Germany.
The Megaphone
“In our state, there are so many German businesses, so
from knowing that you are not different than everyone
if I ever want to pursue a career in one of those fields,
else.”
knowing even just a little bit of German makes it less
A Skill for the Future
scary since I know that I would have something to of-
For students who are considering taking a world lan-
fer those employers,” said Krug. She goes on to explain
guage course, Mr. Spurgin, Krug and Eldridge all say
that learning a new language such as German, doesn’t
that there are advantages to every student, no matter
just have to wait until she enters the work force; the
how much time they decide to commit to language
language course has already helped her develop skills
learning. Two years can give a student the basics to
in writing and problem solving in other subject areas.
communicate, while additional years can give them
While Krug is still building her German vocabulary,
the confidence and fluency for more advanced con-
senior Abigail Eldridge has been studying the French
versations. Regardless of how long a student studies
language for a total of five years.
a language, the journey a student embarks on while
According to Eldridge, those five years have given her
learning a new language can stay with them for the
the basic skills necessary to have conversations in
rest of their lives.
French, but also a strong understanding of the culture.
Learning another language can open doors in stu-
“After two years, you know how to order a meal at a
dents’ lives and futures. Not only can it challenge
restaurant or ask for directions,” said Eldridge. “Tak-
students to think in a different way, it can also help
ing courses beyond that allow you to really commu-
students become more accepting and understanding
nicate, read books and appreciate the culture. But, just
of other cultures and break down barriers between
starting the journey allows you to have the confidence
people in a world that is shrinking rapidly. And, in a state that is attracting some very well known companies from around the world, students who are able to communicate in more than one language may find that they are more marketable and ahead of the game when it comes to their futures. “World languages are not just another class on a student’s schedule. They can be a world of opportunity for them long after they graduate,” said Mr. Spurgin. “The more that you can communicate with others, the better off we are. I always say that smiles and hellos open doors.” And, for students in the state of Indiana, those doors can lead a long way.
The World Language Hall at Cathedral High School where Mr. Spurgin, Mrs. Egan, Mrs. Hovanec, Mrs. Morris, and many more language educators are found.
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A Humble Brother
Brother Matt Rehagen continues to lead with a smile and positive By: Eliza Bradner attitude at Cathedral.
A
t Cathedral High School, many students have a
pursue and find the truth, we’re getting closer to God.”
certain person, whether that is an educator, stu-
Br. Matt says that being at Cathedral has made him
dent, or anyone who is a part of the school, that makes
a better teacher and a better religious witness to the
it feel a little more like home. Even if it is just a smile, or
vowed life. The school has pushed him and opened him
a “hi”, those moments are what can change a student’s
up to many different experiences through clubs, extra-
entire day.
curriculars, and opportunities for prayer. He feels that
If you have ever walked through the halls of Cathe-
he has become a fuller version of himself at Cathedral.
dral, chances are you have seen Brother Matt Rehagen.
“That comes through Jesus Christ and that is what I ul-
Whether he is with a group of students, teaching, or
timately want, to provide that witness to others, to help
having a conversation with someone he barely knows,
them become the fullest versions of themselves.”
Br. Matt is more than just a familiar face throughout the
Father Geoff Mooney, who is another religious and
school. He is someone who makes Cathedral feel more
math teacher at Cathedral, describes Br. Matt as a fun,
welcoming.
loving, and outgoing individual who loves to be in-
Br. Matt has been at Cathedral High School for four
volved in everything imaginable. He says that Br. Matt
years and holds many roles throughout the school. He
enjoys socializing and sharing his love of the things he
teaches Math and Moral Theology courses, serves as
is passionate about, “whether that’s Notre Dame sports,
the Head of the Religion department, coaches JV girls
or Lord of the Rings, or anything in between.”
soccer, leads the Champions Together club, and helps
Fr. Geoff said, “He shows me what it means to serve
moderate the Holy Cross Council.
with ultimate generosity and selflessness. He is al-
Br. Matt chose to become a brother because of the
ways making himself available, he is always giving up
witness of the brothers he met while attending Notre
his time, and he never complains about anything, he
Dame University, who reminded him of his own family.
always does everything with a servant’s heart.”
He said, “They reminded me a lot of my own biologi-
Fr. Geoff also believes Br. Matt is a wonderful exam-
cal brothers growing up, their own prayerfulness, their
ple of Saint Joseph, the Patron Saint of the Holy Cross
own simplicity, their own faithfulness was an inspir-
brothers. Like Saint Joseph, Br. Matt is not looking for
ing way of life for me.”
recognition or honors. Instead, he serves humbly and
Before coming to Cathedral, Br. Matt was a fifth-grade
lovingly. Fr. Geoff says Br. Matt is here to be a friend to
teacher in South Bend Indiana, where he also served as
teachers, students, athletes, and everyone around him.
the Athletic Director. He coached many sports includ-
Reese Ryan, class of 2028 and a member of the Cathe-
ing baseball, basketball, and soccer. When he came to
dral girl’s soccer team, describes Br. Matt as a strong
Cathedral, he wanted to continue being involved in ath-
leader during soccer. She said, “He always knows how
letics, which led him to the girl’s soccer program.
to build us up and bring us together when times are
Br. Matt enjoys teaching both Theology and Math be-
hard.” Ryan also appreciates how he explains things
cause “it just works my entire brain every single day.”
so everyone understands and works to make the team
He explains that math and equations have an objective
better players and people.
answer that people can reach through reason. Theolo-
Br. Matt always encourages others to look at the bright
gy is similar because students come to objective mor-
side of things. He can turn something negative into
al truth, but they do so more through discussion and
something positive and makes everyone around him
reading.
feel special. Through his kindness and joyful presence,
“In everything that I do and everything that I teach, I
students and teachers can feel the presence of God
want us to pursue truth. I’m confident that when we
around him.
The Megaphone
...And Dance With Me T
Class of 2030 arrive at the Welcome Assembly ready to dance their way into the Cathedral family. By: Olivia Carter
he Welcome Assembly is the first all-school assembly
able TikTok dances, it was easy to remember, and the
of the year, where all grades come together with their
freshmen caught on quickly. Freshman Nolan Smith
school spirit. The freshmen dance is an important part of
said, “Because I knew most of the dances already, they
the Welcome Assembly, as it is a school-wide introduction
just had to play the music and we pretty much knew
to the new class. It is the first opportunity for the freshmen
what to do.”
to show their school spirit. For Cathedral, this is much more
The gym was filled with the noise and energy that ac-
than just a dance, it shows the entire school what kind of
companies the first assembly of the school year as lepre-
class the freshmen will be.
chauns and cheerleaders led the school in many cheers.
There is so much to the dance that happens behind the
As the newest class at Cathedral, the freshmen had their
scenes. Seniors Malia Pugh and Lauryn Foreste, members
first chance to show the school what they could bring.
of the student council, volunteered to create the dance that
Smith said, “I was really nervous because we were going
the freshmen would do at the assembly. The process of
to be in front of the whole school.” Despite those nerves,
making the dance was simple, they had to scroll through
they did the dance with the energy and excitement that
TikTok. As the freshman dance is usually curated using
many hoped for.
popular TikTok dances.
The freshmen didn’t stand on the gym floor awkward-
Pugh said that, “It was easy to make the dances since all I
ly or hesitate, instead they gave the school what they
had to do was scroll on my ‘For You’ page.” Although this
wanted. Mrs. Schmidt said, “And that makes sense be-
sounds simple, choosing dances that the whole class will
cause Malia is so full of hope and energy that the dance
recognize takes time and thought. The goal of the dance
would go so well… she really embraces the role of a lead-
was to create something that was familiar to the fresh-
er here.”
men and also entertaining enough that the school would
Malia’s role was more than just creating the dance,
want to get involved. The freshmen were taught the dance
by standing on the gym floor with them, she gave the
at Lughnasa, which is an important part of the freshman
freshmen the confidence and reassurance to keep danc-
experience. Freshman Experience Director Mrs. Megan
ing. Malia and Lauryn alongside the freshmen were put
Schmidt said, “Involvement has grown so much and atten-
on the spot, and were told to do it again. When they did
dance is almost 100%.” The preparation made the freshmen
so, they performed so much better than the first time
more comfortable with the dance before performing it in
that senior football players wanted to dance after them.
front of the school. Because the dance is made of recogniz-
Being willing to perform a second time showed that the freshmen embraced the spirit of the assembly. The freshman dance was more than an annual routine, it was the freshmen’s opportunity to show Cathedral who they are. The freshmen walked into the WAC having to prove themselves at Cathedral and left having made their mark through the energy and school spirit that they had hoped to bring. What started as a bunch of TikTok dances put together became an introduction of
Freshman class of 2030 dance on the WAC floor. Every year at the Welcome Assembly not only do the Freshmen do a dance, the new teachers and staff do one as well. “Dancing in front of 1,000 students and all the other teachers was definitely nerve-racking. I tend to overthink things, so this was the perfect opportunity to do the opposite and just have fun with it. I ended up having a great time dancing with all the new teachers, and afterward, students came up to me and we laughed about my dancing skills, or lack thereof, haha! Go Irish!,” said new Cathedral educator Ms. Raigan Althouse.
the Freshman class to the entire school and set the tone for what kind of class they want to be.
Irishconnection.net
The Loud Crowd
For Cathedral students, the Irish Nightmare comes out on Friday nights. By: Adler Rodman
T
here’s 6 seconds left on the clock. The score is 16-
eryone’s participation, Ben said setting an example is
14 with the opposing team readying to kick a field
the best way for people to feel comfortable in bringing
goal. The ball is kicked, the ref blows their whistle, but
the energy and spirit.
nothing is heard except the loud roar of the Cathedral
Spirit and excitement isn’t the only thing that goes
Irish student section and the shake of the bleachers.
into an amazing student section, it’s the collective
The football program at Cathedral High School has
planning of themes, posters and cheers that are im-
been around for over 100 years and has won 14 state
portant, too. Student sections all around the country
championships. None of which could have been pos-
have set themes to use as inspiration for game attire
sible without the help of the student section, the Irish
and Cathedral has the Irish flag. This theme is where
Nightmare.
all the grades dress up as a color to create the Irish flag
The Irish Nightmare is not just a group of people in a
in the stands. Freshmen wear orange, sophomores
crowd, it is a collective group of students who come
and juniors are white, and seniors up front are green.
together to portray the biggest, most important way
The flag represents Cathedral and it is so special to
of school spirit, energy and community. This year, like
come together and wear those colors while fighting for
many others before, the student section is working to-
the school. Going along with traditions, the students
wards winning the Zone Banner for the best student
always wear “blackout” against Chatard High School
section in central Indiana. This has become a way for
and a way the Leprachuans boosted morale was paint-
students to rally together and participate in another
ing their faces like the joker to represent Batman for
Cathedral tradition of the journey to the banner.
blackout.
Cathedral High school is known for its traditions.
Another big part of the Irish Nightmare is the different
Whether that’s TP on the Hill night for the seniors or
chants. There is the regular “Let’s go Irish”, the defense
the Irish 500, the tradition of the Leprechauns is one of
cheers, but most importantly the banner cheers. These
Cathedral’s most memorable.
are yelled at the top of the students lungs to get the
Every year, new leprechauns get announced to be the
crowd moving and remembering the idea that the stu-
new school mascots their senior year. This year the
dents are still working toward the banner. The game
Irish Leprechauns are Ben Parr and Max Kubacki and
is heavily dependent on the loudness and energy of
they have made it their mission to win the Zone Ban-
the stands. History teacher and member of Student
ner.
Services, Anthony Ernst said, “Players feed off the en-
These two students have a big responsibility of being
ergy of the fans in the stands. Having students travel
the “hype up” for the whole student section. Although
to away games and not just home games can be very
it may seem simple, being the leader of the crowd isn’t
important for the team.”
always easy. Cathedral has just over 1,100 students
The dedication of fans, especially students who travel
and getting those that show up to games to participate
to support the Cathedral football team make the envi-
and cheer passtionately takes effort. Parr said, “I’m not
ronment and the game that much better.
a huge fan of “reprimanding” them, I think encouraging them is more productive than being aggressive. No one likes getting yelled at.” When talking about ev-
The Megaphone
With the energy, spirit, community, and dedication Cathedral students put into the student section, they are a true consideration for the Zone Banner this year. The Cathedral Student section has only ever won the banner one time and that was in 2021. Parr said, “Cathedral as a whole is really passionate and connected. None of the kids, including me, have felt the magic of winning the banner yet, and we are hungry for it. I think we are united in that hunger despite coming from different backgrounds.” The hunger drives everyone who is there at the game, whether it is in the stands or on the field, Cathedral passion for winning is an important part of what it means to be Irish.
The Cathedral Irish student section at the game on August 28th against Loyola Academy. The Irish Nightmare dressed in signature theme, the Irish flag. “This year, the Irish Nightmare has been incredible. After experiencing a quieter student section last year, I really appreciate the change that has happened this year. It’s exciting to see how much energy and enthusiasm they bring to every game. The Irish Nightmare creates an atmosphere that makes everyone want to get involved and cheer louder. When everyone is cheering together, it not only makes the game more fun and exciting, but it also gives the football team extra support and motivation to keep pushing forward. The energy from the student section really makes game nights something to look forward to,” said senior Cheer Captain Emma McGuinness.
Irishconnection.net
Coming Together
The Impact of Fundraising at Cathedral high School
By: Jayde Collins
The Ignite the Irish fundraiser has been going on for
creepingup, students have more than just a free day to
many years and stands strong to this day. The pur-
look forward to. All students are working together to
pose of this fundraiser is to help students with tuition,
support their school and the activities that make their
sports, clubs, and even more.
Cathedral experience special and meaningful. As the
Every year students’ goals are to reach $250 dollars
fundraising total continues to increase each day, the
by the deadline. Not only will they get to dress down
entire Cathedral community is waiting to see if they
once they reach $150, but they will also get to have a
can reach their goal of $300,000 by October 9th.
free day once the total amount is reached.
Student involvement is a major part of the Ignite the
The Ignite the Irish Fundraiser gives Cathedral an
Irish. All throughout this fundraising time, students
opportunity to come together and support not only
are encouraged to actively participate. Students all
themselves but the school, their classmates, activities,
around the Cathedral campus have different reasons
and many programs that Cathedral offers.
for participating, whether it is to support their favor-
Although reaching the ultimate goal may be challeng-
ite sports team or club, help other students, earn the
ing, with the help of the Cathedral staff, students, fam-
dress-down opportunity, or work toward the school-
ilies, and friends, it shows their love and support for
wide free day. Student involvement also goes beyond
the school.
raising money.
Over time, the fundraiser has continued to bring the
The fundraiser gives students the opportunity to learn
Cathedral community together while helping provide
about the different programs and activities that make
resources for the students. The goal for the school as
Cathedral so special. Given that students were given a
a whole this year is $300,000. If this goal is reached by
survey during their core to share what they would like
3:15pm on October 9th, the entire school will receive a
the money to support, they were able to have a say in
free day on Tuesday, November 24th.
what they would like the money to go towards.
Most students are motivated by the dress down rule.
Most importantly, students involvement shows that
Once a student reaches $150, he or she is allowed to
the Ignite the Irish Fundraiser is a community effort.
dress down for the remaining time of the fundraiser.
Each person’s contribution makes a difference no mat-
Jean Smith sends emails out reminding the Cathe-
ter the amount of money that is given.
dral community how well they are doing to be able to
To encourage a culture of giving at Cathedral High
reach their goal. Having the free day gives students an
School, all students are called to complete a philan-
even extra boost of motivation because everyone will
thropy requirement each year. Participating in the Ig-
benefit from this.
nite the Irish fundraiser is considered to be one of the
The money raised doesn’t just go to sports, clubs, and
options of the philanthropy requirement.
programs, it also goes toward tuition assistance. Gus
Audrina Ventimiliga, class of 2029 said, “I love how
Lindgren ‘29 said, “When this fundraiser rolls around,
it helps a lot of different things around the school. I
I look forward to wearing sweatpants and spirit wear
think there are a bunch of benefits that come from this
because it is so much more comfortable than our uni-
fundraiser. I also love how I get to wear sweats.”
form that we wear everyday.”
While the opportunity to wear sweats may be a fun
As the fundraiser continues, students all around the
motivation for students, the fundraiser also gives
school talk about how much they have raised and
them a chance to see how their charity can make a
encourage their friends to donate. With the deadline
difference throughout the Cathedral community.
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Football Beyond the Field From conversations with coaches to campus visits and family guidance, football recruits navigate the pressure and excitement of finding their next home.
By: Lillian Foley
In the modern college football era, the transfer portal
offers a player, many more come flooding in. Halfway
makes it much more challenging for football players to
through his junior year, Tim has also received an offer to
be recruited out of high school. Nonetheless, Cathedral
the University of Miami Ohio.
has a few young men who are fulfilling the Cathedral
One thing that every athlete is bound to learn is the im-
football to collegiate programs pipeline. Tim Ogeninch, a
portance of sacrifice. Evan Johnson, star wide receiver
standout junior, and cornerback has built some hype up
for the Cathedral Irish and a Division I commit to Lin-
since his first varsity start his sophomore year, landing
denwood University was previously a standout athlete
his first division 1 offer from Toledo University. Tim was
in both basketball and baseball, dedicating his time and
invited out for a game day visit at Toledo with his father
energy to these sports.
and grandfather by his side and after a conversation with
By quitting those sports, he now had more time to train,
coaches, was offered a spot on the team.
practice, study, and grow as a football focused athlete.
Ogeninch said, “My first reaction was how I’d dreamt
Evan started his recruiting process early on in his fresh-
about getting a D1 offer all my life and that I was living
man year when he decided that his goal was to play foot-
it in the moment.” He continued, “When a college coach
ball at the next level. But after his third season, he was
reaches out to me I just try to be as genuine as possible
discourage. “I was very unsure on what would be next
and not do too much, obviously treat them with respect
after my junior year because I had not heard from hardly
but at the end of the day the whole point is building a re-
anyone and my recruiting had gotten very slow.”
lationship with them.” Often in recruiting, once a college
Yet, he did not give up. He continued to send out his film to coaches across the country. After a phone call, his future was changed drastically when he was offered by Lindenwood University, a D1 FCS school that plays in the Ohio Valley Conference. When Rene Johnson, mother of Evan, remembers the emotions she was feeling when Evan got his first offer. To see her son validated as a football player, she said, “To realize that coaches at that level saw something in him worth taking a chance on, believed in his potential, and wanted to invest in his future was an incredible feeling.” For athletes like Tim and Evan, the recruiting process is never the same. No athlete has a perfect recruiting timeline. As Tim continues to watch his opportunities grow with programs reaching out to him, Evan is ready for the big step up to college athletics that will come next summer Every athlete’s story is different but both stories make it
Evan Johnson wearing his future football uniform after visiting Lindenwood. Johnson posted these photos to his Instagram with the caption “home.” Photo from Evan Johnson’s Instagram page.
known that an offer does not come over night, it takes years of dedication to the sport. At the end of the day, when both of these standout players sign the dotted line to a program, it will be affirmed that a program believes in them and their work ethic.
Irishconnection.net
Celebrating the Final Chapter Cathedral seniors reflect on their journey, teammates, and memories under the Friday night lights.
By: Vaughn Wise
Ollie Lewis Ollie Lewis, wide receiver and captain of the football team, took the time to reflect on his four years playing football here at Cathedral. Senior night means more than just a football tradition to Ollie Lewis. After four years of constant practices, games, film, and dedication to the team, his senior night gave an opportunity for him to see how much he has improved as a player and a teammate. “Senior night means a lot to me,” Lewis stated. “It was a super cool experience and fun because throughout the past four years, I have watched some of my friends walk the field on senior night. Seeing some of the closest people in his life experience this tradition gave Lewis something so special to look forward to while also showing him that his football years at Cathedral are coming to a close. One of Lewis’ favorite moments came right after he walked the field. Standing between all his loved ones, coaches, teammates, and his parents. After walking through all of the people supporting him it was time for a photo. During that photo, Lewis looked up at the crowd and saw his friends cheering for him. “That was super fun and it was cool to see all of my friends and other people coming to watch and support me,” Lewis said. Senior night also gave Ollie Lewis a chance to be recognized for all the hard work he has put into the program. His football career began long before Cathedral, with Lewis working to improve himself before the summer leading into his freshman year. “My football career led up to senior night through four years of hard work and dedication,” Lewis Stated. Although he expected to feel all the emotions, Lewis said he was mostly excited and joyful. He was happy to have the people he loved there supporting him and felt accomplished. His parents played a big role throughout his football career supporting him from starting out third grade to this moment as a Senior. As his football career comes to a close, Lewis said he will miss Cathedral’s traditions the most. From pregame meals and
During a Cathedral Friday Night Lights football game, Number 8 gets ready for his next play with his teammates lined up behind him. The senior football player represents his hard work all four years at Cathedral. “These are the little traditions that made playing football so special,” Lewis said. Photo taken by beno.jpeg
mass to prayers at the pylon, singing the fight song, locker room celebrations, and praying the rosary with teammates, These moments became experiences Ollie Lewis will hold close to him forever.
Coach Fogel For football players, Senior night is an opportunity to show their hard work, sacrifices, and dedication they have made to this team and given to the program the past four years here at Cathedral. This year’s senior class stands out because they have worked hard and, “paid their dues through their four years here at Cathedral,” stated by Coach Fogel, Science teacher and football coach here at Cathedral for the past 24 years. This
The Megaphone
group of kids has faced many challenges, stepping up
together. They celebrate the memories and bonds
to the Varsity squad, and many have gotten the chance
connected with the team. Cathedral Cheerleader, Gabi
to earn the opportunity of being a starter this year on
Alerding, sees Senior Night as a celebration for her
the football team. For Coach Fogel, watching this year’s
four years as a cheerleader and an opportunity to re-
seniors grow and change into the people they are today
flect her experiences. She described the atmosphere
has been exciting because he’s coached many of them
as feeling a strong sense of community with coaches,
on the Junior Varsity Squad. Seeing them earn the
teammates, family, and friends seeing everyone show
achievement of wearing their gold helmets during thr
up for her on her special night. For Alerding, watching
Friday Night Light games shows just how much they
her teammates and senior cheerleaders receive their
have changed and developed. He is “excited for them to
recognition makes the night feel even more special.
show how hard they have worked and how much they
Alerding believes, “Cathedral cheerleading is a great
want success for not only them but for their families,”
environment to be a part of!”
Fogel states.
Gabi Alerding Senior Night is a tradition that allows Cathedral seniors to spend time cherishing the moments they have made
Gabi’s hard work and dedication has been made throughout her four years here at Cathedral. She always has positive energy with a smile on her face at all times. She gives her all at cheer and has had a great four years and can’t wait to see where her cheer journey takes her. Photo taken by Coach Lexie Davis
Irishconnection.net
Before The Kickoff
How the team prepares for Friday Night
By: Ava Craig
Days before the players step onto the field on Friday night, preparation has already been in motion for days. For the football team specifically, getting ready to play a team is a process that begins immediately after the last game ends. Defensive Coordinator Adam Barth said that the coaching staff spends the entirety of the week studying film and preparing the players for who they are to face next. “Saturdays are spent watching film of
Players take a knee after they secured their first win coaching staff for 4 to 5 hours to prepare,” Barth said. against St. Xavier. Prior to this, the Irish had been 0-2, making this an important moment for the team. In addition to this, the week continues with reports, “Praying together allows us to not only be a team, longer practices and a final dress rehearsal on Thursbut also a family,” Barth said. our next opponent and then on Sunday we meet as a
day. But for Cathedral football players, preparation for games is more than just practicing and training.
Photo by PGproductions.
For Barth and the football team, the most meaning-
once they arrive at the field. The cheerleaders must
ful moment is when the players and coaches pray the
also adapt to the crowd and the game. This happens
rosary on the bus. This tradition is meaningful to the
throughout the week as the girls practice and plan for
players and the coaches as they get to come together
different scenarios that might occur.
as not just a team, but a community as they grow in
For senior cheerleader, Vaughn Wise, the experience
their faith. This gives the players a moment of calm
has been more about what happens on the sidelines.
before they come together and play the game.
“One thing I didn’t expect when I joined the team was
While the football team prepares through film and
how close we all got. The girls are like sisters to me
practices, the cheer team has its own routines and tra-
and we are always there for each other,” Wise said.
ditions to help set the tone for the night.
After spending two years on varsity, Wise has seen
Andrea Aldridge, the Head Varsity Coach for cheer-
how the team has grown together. The connection as
leading, helps get the girls prepared for Fridays.
a team becomes stronger and more noticeable on Fri-
Aldridge said “I give them a certain number of chants
day nights. From the sidelines, the team experiences a
they need to complete by the end of the game. If I no-
different and unique viewpoint of the game.
tice them starting to slow down, I’ll remind them what
“Winning games is so much fun and being able to sing
number they’re on to keep them motivated.”
the fight song with the players at the end if we win
The athletes do intense cardio and workouts through-
is so cool.” She also enjoys seeing the student section
out the summer to be prepared to be always up and
from the sidelines and experiencing the excitement of
jumping.
the crowd from a different perspective.
Aldridge explained how this year she has given the
By the time the crowd begins to fill the stands both
athletes more “free range” when it comes to finding
teams have already put in hours of preparation. From
ways to engage the student section. “Our student sec-
studying opponents, practicing plays, to building rela-
tion and leprechauns have been amazing this year,
tionships and creating traditions each part of the week
which makes it even easier for our cheerleaders to
contributes to Friday night’s experience. Although
stay energized and keep going!” This allows the cheer-
fans only get to see a special part of it, the teamwork
leaders to prepare games and activities to do during
and dedication behind the scenes are what makes
timeouts and quarters. Their preparation does not end
those moments possible and special.
The Megaphone
More Than A Welcome
Before school starts, the class of 2030 and Peer Ministers start the year at Lughnasa. By: Zoey Heath The Class of 2030 stepped into Cathedral not knowing
Freshmen who initially seemed unsure gradually be-
exactly what to expect. Some freshmen arrived quietly,
came more comfortable participating, talking with their
staying close to familiar faces, while others quickly began
classmates and engaging with the Peer Ministers. The
talking and laughing with the people around them.
small moments of laughter and conversation showed
As the day continued, nervous faces became smiles, and
that the event was becoming more than an orientation.
unfamiliar hallways began to feel a little more like home.
Senior Peer Minister Jada Tarver saw Lughnasa as more
For Cathedral’s newest students, Lughnasa is the begin-
than just another school event. She felt that the person-
ning of their high school experience. The annual fresh-
al connections between the freshmen and Peer Minis-
man orientation gives the Class of 2030 a chance to learn
ters were what made the experience special. “Lughnasa
about Cathedral’s traditions, meet new people and begin
is different because it gives freshmen a chance to feel
understanding what it means to be part of the Irish com-
connected before they even really start high school,”
munity.
Tarver said. “It was cool watching everyone come out of
But for the seniors leading the event as Peer Ministers,
their shells and start talking to people. As a Peer Min-
Lughnasa is also a reminder of where their own Cathe-
ister, I wanted them to know that they have people at
dral journey began. For senior Peer Minister Malia Pugh,
Cathedral they can turn to and that they are already part
returning to Lughnasa in a leadership role made the expe-
of the community.”
rience feel personal. “Being a Peer Minister at Lughnasa
While freshmen were beginning a new chapter, the Peer
felt like coming full circle for me,” Pugh said. “I remember
Ministers were also reflecting on their own experienc-
being a nervous freshman and not knowing what to ex-
es. Now, they were the ones answering questions, en-
pect, but Lughnasa helped me feel at home at Cathedral.”
couraging participation and helping younger students
Pugh wanted to help create the same feeling of belonging
feel comfortable. For Pugh, seeing that change happen
that she experienced when she first arrived at Cathedral.
throughout the day reinforced why the tradition contin-
As the Peer Ministers interacted with the Class of 2030,
ues. “Seeing them go from quiet and nervous to laugh-
they helped turn an unfamiliar first experience into an op-
ing, participating, and feeling comfortable reminded me
portunity to connect. “I wanted them to know that they
why Lughnasa matters,” Pugh said.
already have people here who care about them and want
Lughnasa gives the Class of 2030 its first real introduc-
to see them succeed,” Pugh said.
tion to the traditions and people that make up Cathedral. But its impact goes beyond one day. The seniors who welcome freshmen today were once welcomed themselves, creating a cycle that can continue from one class to the next. “Cathedral is more than just a school; it’s a community where we support one another,” Pugh said. “I hope one day they can help a new freshmen feel just as welcome.” As the Class of 2030 begins its Cathedral journey, the Peer Ministers leave them with more than memories of their first orientation. They leave them with the feeling
Senior Peer Minister Malia Pugh working on the TikTok dance with some smiling 9th graders. The freshmen will perform the dance at the Welcome Assembly. Photo by Quinn Valentine
that they belong—and someday, they may be the ones standing at Lughnasa, welcoming the next class home.
The Megaphone
Swinging Senior
A look into what it is like to be a Cathedral High School volleyball player.
By: Harper Hornsby
The gym fills with cheers as the ball flies across the net.
The team’s connection is something that Karrie
Players call to each other, students shout from the bleach-
Quenichet, Cathedral Head Coach and educator, gets
ers, and every point brings the team not only closer to w
to see from different perspectives. Quenichet said, “We
in, but closer together.
spend time each season learning about each other and
For Cathedral volleyball player Caroline Hanchar, being
how we like to communicate, both on and off the vol-
a star player and captain on the team is more than just
leyball court.”
winning games, it is about the friendships, teamwork, and
As a coach she watches the players grow not only as
memories made along the way. Being a volleyball player
athletes but also as teammates. She sees how commu-
at Cathedral means being a part of a team that depends
nication and trust can affect the way the team works
on each other. During practices and games players have to
together even during hard times.
communicate, encourage each other, and work together to
“Most recently we are dealing with more injuries at one
win. The pressure of a game can be stressful, but having
time than I have ever experienced in my many years
teammates beside you makes those moments easier. Car-
of coaching,” she said. “This has required many people
oline knows volleyball has helped her create friendships
to step up, some in different roles than they are used to
at Cathedral. “Some of my best memories come from my
playing.”
connections with this team,” she said.
Quenichet teaches her players lessons that go beyond
Game days are also a chance to experience the excitement
volleyball, like unselfishness and adapting a tolerance
and nerves that comes with playing in front of her class-
to discomfort. The sport gives players opportunities to
mates and Cathedral Community. From preparing before
learn about leadership, confidence, responsibility, and
games to stepping onto the court. Each part of the game
supporting others. These lessons can continue to mat-
day contributes to the experience of being on the team.
ter, even when the players leave the court.
Caroline said, “Playing for Cathedral is more than playing
The impact of Cathedral volleyball can also be seen from
volleyball, it is representing our school.” Spending so much
the stands. Dixon Hornsby, a Cathedral student who is
time practicing, traveling, and competing together gives
not on the volleyball team, experiences the games as a
teammates opportunities to become closer representing
fan instead of seeing the game from the court. He sees
the Holy Cross Core Values. These relationships can make
how players in the crowd create energy throughout the
a team feel like more than just a team.
gym. Dixon said that one thing that stands out about the volleyball team is that “after every point, they huddle up in the circle and talk things through and make sure they’re all on the same page, showing teamwork and their team chemistry.” By the end of the season, the wins and losses will eventually become memories. What can last longer are the friendships, lessons, and experiences created along the way. Cathedral volleyball gives its players a chance to compete, but it also gives them a place to grow connected with others and become part of the larger Cathedral
Caroline Hanchar (13) warming up for a heated game against CHS volleyball’s rival, Roncalli on September 2nd, 2026. The Lady Irish lost in 5 sets going 2-3, but still worked together and held their own against the Royals. Photo by flores._frames;Cathedral Volleyball IG
community.
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